The Scarlet Empress poster

The Scarlet Empress (1934)

"The Reigning Beauty of the Screen!"

6.919341h 44mEN
DramaHistoryRomance

Directed by Josef von Sternberg

Rating

6.9/10

Runtime

1h 44m

Language

EN

Release

May 9, 1934

Director

Josef von Sternberg

Official Trailer

Trailer thumbnail

Overview

During the 18th century, German noblewoman Sophia Frederica, who would later become Catherine the Great, travels to Moscow to marry the dimwitted Grand Duke Peter, the heir to the Russian throne. Their arranged marriage proves to be loveless, and Catherine takes many lovers, including the handsome C...

Cast

Marlene Dietrich

Marlene Dietrich

Princess Sophia Frederica / Catherine II

John Lodge

John Lodge

Count Alexei

Sam Jaffe

Sam Jaffe

Grand Duke Peter

Louise Dresser

Louise Dresser

Empress Elizabeth Petrovna

C. Aubrey Smith

C. Aubrey Smith

Prince August

Gavin Gordon

Gavin Gordon

Capt. Gregori Orloff

Olive Tell

Olive Tell

Princess Johanna Elizabeth

Ruthelma Stevens

Ruthelma Stevens

Countess Elizabeth 'Lizzie'

Davison Clark

Davison Clark

Archimandrite Simeon Todorsky / Arch-Episcope

Erville Alderson

Erville Alderson

Chancelor Alexei Bestuchef

Maria Riva

Maria Riva

Sophia as a Child

Jane Darwell

Jane Darwell

Miss Cardell, Sophia's Nurse (uncredited)

Introduction

In this latest movie review, we dive deep into The Scarlet Empress (1934), exploring its intricate plot and standout performances that have everyone talking.

During the 18th century, German noblewoman Sophia Frederica, who would later become Catherine the Great, travels to Moscow to marry the dimwitted Grand Duke Peter, the heir to the Russian throne. Their arranged marriage proves to be loveless, and Catherine takes many lovers, including the handsome Count Alexei, and bears a son. When the unstable Peter eventually ascends to the throne, Catherine plots to oust him from power.

🛑 Story ExplainedSpoiler Warning

Our story explained section breaks down the complex narrative of The Scarlet Empress. The full story follows a progression that challenges typical tropes, leading to a climax that requires careful analysis.

🏆 Final Verdict

5 / 5 Stars

A triumphant piece of cinema that blends gripping narrative with breathtaking visuals.

Related Movies

1 Discussion