Catherine the Great (1934)

Often referred to simply as Catherine the Great, this 1934 British historical drama—officially titled The Rise of Catherine the Great—was directed by Paul Czinner and produced by Alexander Korda, one of the leading figures in British cinema at the time. The film dramatizes the early life of Catherine II of Russia, tracing her transformation from a naïve German princess into one of history’s most formidable monarchs.

Plot Summary
The story follows Princess Sophie of Anhalt-Zerbst (Elisabeth Bergner), who is chosen to marry the unstable Grand Duke Peter (Douglas Fairbanks Jr.), heir to the Russian throne. As she navigates the treacherous politics of the imperial court, Sophie evolves into Catherine, a woman of intelligence and resolve. Her rise culminates in a palace coup that places her on the throne, setting the stage for her legendary reign.

Cast Highlights

• Elisabeth Bergner as Catherine
• Douglas Fairbanks Jr. as Grand Duke Peter
• Flora Robson as Empress Elisabeth
• Gerald du Maurier, Irene Vanbrugh, and Griffith Jones in supporting roles

Fun fact: Flora Robson played Bergner’s aunt-in-law, despite being four years younger than her.

Behind-the-Scenes Trivia

• The film premiered at the Astor Theatre in New York City on February 14, 1934
• It was part of a package of Alexander Korda productions syndicated for U.S. television in the late 1940s, making it one of the earliest British films to reach American TV audiences
• In Canada, it was occasionally shown on double bills, including one pairing with Wives Never Know (1936)

Style and Reception

• The film is often compared to Josef von Sternberg’s The Scarlet Empress (1934), which also depicts Catherine’s rise but with a more expressionist and provocative style
• The Rise of Catherine the Great opts for historical fidelity and restrained drama, showcasing British theatrical traditions and costume design
• Elisabeth Bergner’s performance was praised for its blend of naïveté and emerging steeliness, while Douglas Fairbanks Jr. brought charisma to the erratic Peter