Poster of The Emperor Jones

The Emperor Jones

Drama, Music

Director: Dudley Murphy, William C. de Mille

Release Date: September 29, 1933

Where to Watch

This extremely dated film has visual moments of brilliance or maybe Paul Robeson was just hot, but for something made in 1933, any nudity by any man, particularly a black man, stands in stark contrast with its more mainstream counterparts. It’s like Jacob in Twilight-any excuse for the man to be shirtless. The Emperor Jones was noted for having a predominantly black cast and Robeson’s vocal talents, but basically a typical story–man strays from his Christian upbringing and soon falls prey to his greed and pride in his efforts to rise beyond his humble upbringings with a dash of stereotypes.

Stay In The Know

Join my mailing list to get updates about recent reviews, upcoming speaking engagements, and film news.