The Rise of Catherine the Great (1934)

In the heart of Russia, 1745, we're introduced to a grand unfolding of royal chess. Amidst the regal opulence, the unmarried and ailing Empress Elisabeth (Dame Flora Robson) faces the bleak reality of an unsecured family monarchy. She places her hopes on her nephew, the whimsical Grand Duke Peter (Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.). A bachelor by choice, Peter is content in his world of hedonistic pursuits, reluctant to surrender his freedom for marriage. Into this court of intrigue enters the demure German Princess Sophie Auguste Frederika of Anhalt-Zerbst (Elisabeth Bergner), renamed Catherine for the Russian court. She carries a childhood affection for Peter, a flame that flickers brighter when their eyes meet for the first time. An arranged marriage seals their fates, binding them together in a dance of love and power. As their union unfolds, it's marred by Peter's volatile nature - a mix of misogyny, narcissism, and profound self-doubt. His womanizing ways and growing suspicion of Catherine's motives for marrying him further strain their relationship. Peter seeks solace in the arms of courtiers, while Catherine, in an intriguing twist, fabricates her own lovers to keep the peace. In her solitude, Catherine finds a mentor in Empress Elisabeth. She learns the art of ruling, the balance of power, and the language of diplomacy. She transforms, emerging as a potential ruler who could better serve the people of Russia than the unpredictable Peter. As she stands on the precipice of power, she must make a decision. Will she seize the throne or retain her loyalty to the man she loves? The rise of Catherine the Great is a mesmerizing journey of love, betrayal, and ambition, set against the backdrop of a Russia teetering on the brink of change.

The Rise of Catherine the Great is a drama movie featuring Douglas Fairbanks Jr. and directed by Alexander Korda.

The Rise of Catherine the Great is currently streaming on Criterion Channel, Fandor Amazon Channel and Max Amazon Channel.