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Voltaire

Play trailer Poster for Voltaire 1933 1h 12m Drama Play Trailer Watchlist
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Voltaire (George Arliss) is a prominent French writer and philosopher who, though loyal to his king, is unafraid to highlight the monarchy's indifference to the suffering of its people. Voltaire is largely protected from retribution by his relationship with the influential Mme. Pompadour (Doris Kenyon), but finds trouble with a manipulative palace official. Voltaire's troubles escalate when he takes in Nanette Calas (Margaret Lindsay), whose father he thinks was unfairly executed.

Critics Reviews

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Dennis Schwartz Dennis Schwartz Movie Reviews Played with his usual histrionics by George Arliss. Rated: B- Mar 18, 2021 Full Review Read all reviews

Audience Reviews

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Audience Member ok costume drama sorta bio-pic Rated 2.5 out of 5 stars 02/25/23 Full Review Audience Member "Voltaire" is set in Paris in 1762, as an aged Voltaire rallies the people and warns King Louis XV that the excesses of the French nobility will lead to revolution. This story provides another historical fiction vehicle for Arliss to serve as a great interpreter of historical figures. George Arliss once again shows his talents in the lead role as Voltaire. He develops the character well through his careful mannerisms, dialogue and appearance. I enjoyed the supporting performances as well, especially Reginald Owen as the leisurely but proud King Louis XV. The story is a decent one, and it is interesting to see the ways Voltaire manipulates his surroundings to his benefit. There is also a lot of well-placed humor in the film and great irony, particularly when Louis XV decries the traits which he possesses. Overall this film is worth seeing, in particular for another notable performance from George Arliss. Rated 4 out of 5 stars 01/20/23 Full Review Read all reviews
Voltaire

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Voltaire

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Movie Info

Synopsis Voltaire (George Arliss) is a prominent French writer and philosopher who, though loyal to his king, is unafraid to highlight the monarchy's indifference to the suffering of its people. Voltaire is largely protected from retribution by his relationship with the influential Mme. Pompadour (Doris Kenyon), but finds trouble with a manipulative palace official. Voltaire's troubles escalate when he takes in Nanette Calas (Margaret Lindsay), whose father he thinks was unfairly executed.
Director
John Adolfi
Production Co
Warner Bros.
Genre
Drama
Original Language
English
Runtime
1h 12m