
The Scarlet Empress
1934 · Movie · NR · 104 min · ★ 6.9
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.
Also known as Catherine the Great
Where to watch
Not currently available to stream in the US.
2 hours to watch.
Streaming availability and prices may be inaccurate or change — verify with the provider before subscribing.
unSUB's subscription recommendations are informational only, not financial advice.
More value for your money
Similar titles, ranked by watch-hours per subscription dollar.
Details
- Years
- 1934
- Release date
- 1934-05-09
- Language
- English
- Rated
- NR
- Runtime
- 104 min
- TMDB rating
- 6.9/10 (142 votes)
Themes
- based on novel or book
- royal family
- biography
- empress
- royalty
- pre-code
- 18th century
- catherine the great
Cast & crew

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
Directed by Josef von Sternberg