This is only the second film made from the fairy tale by Hans Christian Andersen, "The Princess and the Pea." Both of these were TV films. The first carried the same title as the story and was a drama. But this first adapted musical comedy is of a play with a different title, "Once Upon a Mattress." What a fantastic, funny and enjoyable movie it is.
The success is in no small part due to Carol Burnett who plays and sings the part of Princess Winnifred. She has great support from Jane White as Queen Aggravain and Joseph Bova as Prince Dauntless. Others lend to this fine performance, including Jack Gilford as King Sextimus, Elliott Gould as Jester and Shani Wallis as Lady Larken.
Burnett was the original star of the show when it opened on Broadway in 1959. She received a Tony nomination, as did the play as best musical. Most of the leading cast from the stage production are in this TV movie. White, Bova and Gilford return along with Burnett.
I watched a TV recording of the show that was poor quality. I think this would go over well if it ever comes out on DVD.
Every fairy tale set to music should be as funny and as much fun. This is a wonderful film for the whole family.