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69% Critic Match
The Scarlet Empress
“The Reigning Beauty of the Screen!”
6.9 / 10• 1934• 1h 44m•NR• English
DramaHistoryRomance
Storyline
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.
Cast & Crew
Marlene Dietrich
Princess Sophia Frederica / Catherine II
Lead
John Lodge
Count Alexei
Sam Jaffe
Grand Duke Peter
Louise Dresser
Empress Elizabeth Petrovna
C. Aubrey Smith
Prince August
Gavin Gordon
Capt. Gregori Orloff
Olive Tell
Princess Johanna Elizabeth
Ruthelma Stevens
Countess Elizabeth 'Lizzie'
What People Are Saying
4.0
“A staggering achievement of craft and ambition. Josef von Sternberg's vision lands with breathtaking precision.”
3.0
“Every frame feels alive. The Scarlet Empress is the rare release that takes its audience seriously.”
