The Scarlet Empress

(1934)Directed by Josef von Sternberg104 minDrama, History, Romance
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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.

Marlene Dietrichas Princess Sophia Frederica / Catherine II
John Lodgeas Count Alexei
Sam Jaffeas Grand Duke Peter
Louise Dresseras Empress Elizabeth Petrovna
C. Aubrey Smithas Prince August
Gavin Gordonas Capt. Gregori Orloff
Olive Tellas Princess Johanna Elizabeth
Ruthelma Stevensas Countess Elizabeth 'Lizzie'
Davison Clarkas Archimandrite Simeon Todorsky / Arch-Episcope
Erville Aldersonas Chancelor Alexei Bestuchef
Maria Rivaas Sophia as a Child
Jane Darwellas Miss Cardell, Sophia's Nurse (uncredited)
Edward Van Sloanas Herr Wagner (uncredited)
Akim Tamiroffas Bit Part (uncredited)
Marie Wells
Elinor Fair
Agnes Steele
Nadine Beresford