The Life of Emile Zola
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The Life of Emile Zola

(1937)Directed by William Dieterle116 min · GDrama, History
“He'll hold you in silence as deep as your emotions!”

A fictionalized account of famous French writer Émile Zola and his involvement in the Dreyfus Affair. After struggling to establish himself, Zola wins success documenting the unsavory side of Paris and settles into a comfortable upper-class life. However, his complacency is shaken when Jewish officer Alfred Dreyfus is imprisoned for espionage. Realizing that Dreyfus is an innocent victim of anti-Semitism, Zola boldly pens an exposé, only to be charged with libel and now he must defend himself in a dramatic courtroom testimony.

Paul Munias Emile Zola
Gale Sondergaardas Lucie Dreyfus
Joseph Schildkrautas Capt. Alfred Dreyfus
Gloria Holdenas Alexandrine Zola
Donald Crispas Maitre Labori
John Litelas Charpentier
Henry O'Neillas Colonel Picquart
Morris Carnovskyas Anatole France
Louis Calhernas Major Dort
Ralph Morganas Commander of Paris
Robert Barratas Major Walsin-Esterhazy
Vladimir Sokoloffas Paul Cezanne
Grant Mitchellas Georges Clemenceau
Harry Davenportas Chief of Staff
Robert Warwickas Colonel Henry
Charles Richmanas M. Delagorgue
Gilbert Emeryas Minister of War
Walter Kingsfordas Colonel Sandherr
Paul Evertonas Assistant Chief of Staff
Montagu Loveas M. Cavaignac
Frank Sheridanas M. Van Cassell
Lumsden Hareas Mr. Richards
Marcia Mae Jonesas Helen Richards

Recent Screenings

  • @jack watched thisFebruary 2, 2026