The read
A Balasaur Score of 77 out of 100, drawn from IMDb 7.5/10, Rotten Tomatoes 87%. Critics rate it 12 points higher than audiences do. Scores higher than 70% of the 354 1930s drama movies in this catalog.
Synopsis
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.
Ratings
IMDb7.5/10
Rotten Tomatoes87%
Critics rate it 12 points higher than audiences do.
144 audience votes
Key crew
- Josef von SternbergDirector
- Manuel KomroffWriter
- Eleanor McGearyWriter
Cast
- Marlene DietrichPrincess Sophia Frederica / Catherine II
- John LodgeCount Alexei
- Sam JaffeGrand Duke Peter
- Louise DresserEmpress Elizabeth Petrovna
- C. Aubrey SmithPrince August
- Gavin GordonCapt. Gregori Orloff
- Olive TellPrincess Johanna Elizabeth
- Ruthelma StevensCountess Elizabeth 'Lizzie'
- Davison ClarkArchimandrite Simeon Todorsky / Arch-Episcope
- Erville AldersonChancelor Alexei Bestuchef
- Maria RivaSophia as a Child
- Jane DarwellMiss Cardell, Sophia's Nurse (uncredited)
