The Man Who Would Be King

In 1880s India, two former British soldiers decide to set themselves up as Kings in the remote land of Kafiristan, aiming to establish their own rule. The narrative is presented as a dramatic period adventure, and it stars Sean Connery.

The Man Who Would Be King is a programme presented in a movie‑style format. Classified within the adventure genre, it offers a period piece that transports viewers back to the late nineteenth century. The title itself hints at the lofty ambitions of its central characters, setting the tone for the story that follows. The narrative centres on two former British soldiers who, after serving in India during the 1880s, decide to abandon their previous lives and attempt to install themselves as monarchs in the remote region of Kafiristan. Their scheme relies on the military experience they gained while in India, and they set out to claim authority in a land far removed from the world they once knew. Set against the backdrop of India and the rugged terrain of Kafiristan, the story unfolds as a classic period adventure. It captures the daring of men who seek to rewrite their destinies, moving from disciplined soldiers to self‑appointed kings. The programme’s focus on this extraordinary venture provides a glimpse into the adventurous spirit of the era. Throughout the film‑like presentation, the audience follows the pair as they navigate the challenges of imposing their rule in an unfamiliar land. Their journey reflects both the allure of power and the perils of overreaching, encapsulating the adventurous tone that defines the programme. By concentrating on this bold scheme, the work offers a snapshot of 1880s ambition filtered through a personal quest for sovereignty.