American Friends


American Friends is a 1991 British comedy film starring Michael Palin. It was written by Palin and its director, Tristram Powell.

Plot

Palin plays Francis Ashby, a senior Oxford professor on holiday in the Swiss Alps in 1861. There he meets the American Caroline Hartley and her 18-year-old ward Elinor. Ashby is drawn to them both, particularly Elinor, but is rather surprised when they arrive in Oxford and rent a house. Women are not allowed in the college, nor are fellows allowed to marry, which puts him in an embarrassing situation. Ashby's rival for the post of college president, Oliver Syme, takes full advantage of this to try to discredit Ashby.

Inspiration

The plot was based on a real-life incident involving Palin's great-grandfather, Edward Palin.

Cast

The film won the Writers' Guild of Great Britain Award for Best film/screenplay.

Discography

The CD soundtrack composed by Georges Delerue is available on Music Box Records label.