Richard the Lionheart

Training soldiers off in the countryside, Prince Richard is unaware that his father the King is ill. A messenger is sent to tell him, but scheming Prince John has him killed and a false message sent that causes Richard to go off to make a treaty with the unpredictable Lady Catherine. In the mean time, the King dies and John insists that in Richard's absence, he should become the new King.

Back in 1189 London, Richard and his men receive no welcome, only to find that Prince John has kidnapped their mother, Queen Eleanor, and is intent on installing himself as the new King.

Having returned to London to prepare for his coronation, Richard discovers that Prince John has fled the country with the Queen as hostage.

In defiance of Richard's orders, Baron Giles gives protection to fugitives from justice. To add insult to injury, he abducts the Lady Rosalie, recently betrothed to Sir Geoffrey.

Anxious to learn the plight of his subjects firsthand. Richard sallies forth in disguise – and soon finds himself arrested for not paying his taxes.

Having sent several of his friends in pursuit of three escaped prisoners, Richard is concerned when he hears that they have taken refuge in the castle of a knight who feeds his foes to his wild animals.