Cast
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Marlene Dietrich
as Princess Sophia Frederica / Catherine II
John Lodge
as Count Alexei
Sam Jaffe
as Grand Duke Peter
Louise Dresser
as Empress Elizabeth Petrovna
C. Aubrey Smith
as Prince August
Gavin Gordon
as Capt. Gregori Orloff
Olive Tell
as Princess Johanna Elizabeth
Ruthelma Stevens
as Countess Elizabeth 'Lizzie'
Davison Clark
as Archimandrite Simeon Todorsky / Arch-Episcope
Erville Alderson
as Chancelor Alexei Bestuchef
Maria Riva
as Sophia as a Child
Jane Darwell
as Miss Cardell, Sophia's Nurse (uncredited)
Edward Van Sloan
as Herr Wagner (uncredited)
Akim Tamiroff
as Bit Part (uncredited)
Marie Wells
as
Crew
Director
- Josef von Sternberg
Writer
- Manuel Komroff
- Eleanor McGeary
Producer
- Josef von Sternberg
Reviews
CinemaSerf
If anyone was to have actually filmed aspects of the life of the Princess at the time, then they could hardly have come up with anything more authentic than this fabulous Von Sternberg dramatisation of the rise, and rise of Catherine the Great. Marlene Dietrich is superb as the schemed against who becomes the scheming Grand Duchess married off to the imbecilic nephew (played by a superb Sam Jaffe) of the Empress Elizabeth (an imperious Louise Dresser). Through her series of lovers and strategic alliances, she deposes her idiot husband and accedes to the throne. The (lingering) intimacy of the filming of the star - almost bordering on adulation by the camera (and the director!?); the use of light and shadow - particularly the use of candles; and the marvellous Tchaikovsky score all more than compensate for some of the "train set" model scenery and make this a scintillating story of power. Great stuff.
Jun 13, 2022
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Scarlet Empress examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Josef von Sternberg brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1934, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of The Scarlet Empress took approximately 8 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $0.9 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 104 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 124 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 1242 individual shots.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The screenplay went through 9 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 1934, when this film was released:
- The Cold War was intensifying, influencing global politics and culture.
- Rock and roll music was revolutionizing popular culture.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Scarlet Empress shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Little Witch, which focuses more on action than character development, The Scarlet Empress offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Kaagaz and A Pinwheel Without Wind explore similar territory, The Scarlet Empress stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: May 9, 1934
- Runtime: 1h 44m
- Budget: $900,000
Where to Watch
