Review of The Life of Emile Zola (1937) by Grant S — 04 Feb 2017
The story of Emile Zola, French writer and social commentator. We track his life from his days as a struggling artist, sharing an apartment with Paul Cezanne, to his first bestselling book, and resulting elevation from poverty, to his forays into social and political commentary through his books, to his involvement in the Dreyfuss Affair.
Quite interesting and edifying. I must admit that I had not heard of Emile Zola or the Dreyfuss Affair before this movie. Having seen the influence of the man on society and literature I am now embarrassed to say that. Clearly incredibly talented and principled and willing to put his own neck and reputation on the line in order to fight injustice.
The movie captures these qualities very well. I was expecting a rather dry, blow-by-blow delivery and, while the plot does develop in linear form, it is never dull and is always engaging.
Won the 1938 Best Picture Oscar.
This review of The Life of Emile Zola (1937) was written by Grant S on 04 Feb 2017.
The Life of Emile Zola has generally received positive reviews.
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