THE JESTER

Step back to 1096, a time of castles, knights, and serfs. Hugh de Luc, a modest, young innkeeper, joins the Crusade to the Holy Land. Upon his return he finds that his village has been attacked and his beloved Sophie kidnapped by a cruel and barbaric knight. He assumes the persona of a court jester to gain access to the castle to search for his wife, and finds a new purpose for his life. Cary Elwes provides a flawless performance, successfully stretching and recasting his voice to create each character. The pace is intense, with added drama in the heat of battle, when local farmers and countrymen rally to confront trained soldiers. Occasional chamber music conveys the mood of the story, heightening the suspenseful moments and calming the intimate ones. F.L.F. (c) AudioFile 2003, Portland, Maine [Published: DEC 03/JAN 04]