Overview

Crown Prince Rudolf of Austria clashes with his father, Emperor Franz Joseph I of Austria, over implementing progressive policies for their country. Rudolf soon feels he is a man born at the wrong time in a country that doesn't realize the need for social reform. The Prince of Wales, later to become Britain's King Edward VII, provides comic relief. Rudolf finds refuge from a loveless marriage with Princess Stéphanie by taking a mistress, Baroness Maria Vetsera. Their untimely demise at Mayerling, the imperial family's hunting lodge, is cloaked in mystery.

Cast

Omar Sharif

Rudolf, Crown Prince of Austria

Catherine Deneuve

Baroness Mary Vetsera

James Mason

Franz Joseph I of Austria

Ava Gardner

Empress Elisabeth of Austria

James Robertson Justice

Prince of Wales

Geneviève Page

Countess Marie Larisch von Moennich

Andréa Parisy