The King and I

Anna Leonowens, a widowed schoolteacher, arrives in Bangkok from Wales with her young son, Louis. They are greeted by the intimidating Kralahome, who escorts them to the Royal Palace, against Anna's contract terms.

Inside the Royal Palace, Anna meets King Mongkut, who ignores her objections and introduces her to his numerous wives and fifteen children. This marks the beginning of her role as tutor to the King's children.

While unpacking, Anna discovers an old photograph of her late husband, prompting the King's wives to deride Tuptim, who is secretly in love with Lun Tha. This reveals the complex personal dynamics in the palace.

Anna attempts to teach the children about home life, but chaos ensues when they refuse to believe in snow, having never seen it. King Mongkut enters amid the disorder, sparking a conversation about cultural differences.

In a private meeting, King Mongkut shares his thoughts on the creation of the world and compels Anna to write a letter to President Abraham Lincoln. His disregard for her advice on elephants suggests a struggle for understanding between cultures.

Anna encounters Lun Tha, who requests her help arranging a meeting with Tuptim. Despite her initial reluctance, memories of her past lead Anna to eventually agree to facilitate their secret rendezvous.

King Mongkut grows worried about British imperialism encroaching on Siam and erupts into the schoolroom, upset by the children's song 'Home Sweet Home.' Anna stands firm against him, declaring her intention to leave.

Lady Thiang convinces Anna to assist the King in preparing for an upcoming envoy from Britain, ultimately leading to a banquet where the King hopes to portray Siam in a favorable light. Anna’s influence grows as she persuades the King about European customs.

During the banquet, Tuptim presents a version of Uncle Tom's Cabin as a Siamese ballet, igniting tension as it addresses issues of slavery. The King and Kralahome react unfavorably to the sensitive themes, illustrating the cultural rift.

After the banquet, Anna has a meaningful conversation with the King, but their moment is shattered when it is revealed that Tuptim has run away with Lun Tha. The King’s ensuing actions show his struggle with personal and cultural loyalty.

As Tuptim’s fate hangs in the balance, Anna confronts the King about his intentions to punish her. This heated exchange highlights the conflict between their differing views on honor and love within their respective cultures.

Devastated by the turn of events, King Mongkut isolates himself, refusing to eat. Anna learns from Lady Thiang about the King's emotional turmoil and glimmers of regret, prompting her to reconsider her departure.

In a poignant moment before her departure, Anna visits the dying King. He expresses his gratitude and insists she wear his ring as a symbol of their bond, encouraging her and Louis to stay in Bangkok.

After King Mongkut's death, Prince Chulalongkorn takes his place, issuing a proclamation that aims to abolish slavery in Siam. This significant moment marks the transition of power and represents hope for change.

As King Mongkut quietly passes, only a few, including Anna and the Kralahome, recognize the loss. Their shared sorrow reflects the impact the King had on their lives, leaving an indelible mark on Anna’s journey.