
The Great King 1942
Set against the brutal backdrop of 18th-century warfare, *The Great King (1942)* plunges viewers into the desperate struggle of Frederick II of Prussia as his forces face annihilation at the Battle of Kunersdorf.
Director: Veit Harlan
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Great King (1942) about?
The film follows Frederick the Great of Prussia as his army teeters on the brink of defeat during the Battle of Kunersdorf. Against overwhelming odds, a series of unexpected events ignites hope that victory might still be within reach.
Who directed The Great King?
The movie was directed by Veit Harlan, a filmmaker known for his work in historical dramas during the era.
Who stars in The Great King?
The cast features Otto Gebühr as Frederick the Great, alongside Kristina Söderbaum, Gustav Fröhlich, Hans Nielsen, and Hilde Körber in pivotal roles.
Is The Great King (1942) worth watching?
While the film's perspective is shaped by its historical context, it offers a compelling look at leadership under pressure and military strategy. Fans of classic historical dramas will find its narrative and performances rewarding.
How long is The Great King?
The runtime of *The Great King* is 118 minutes, offering a substantial cinematic experience.
About The Great King (1942) — The Battle of Kunersdorf and Frederick the Great's Defining Moment
Set against the brutal backdrop of 18th-century warfare, *The Great King (1942)* plunges viewers into the desperate struggle of Frederick II of Prussia as his forces face annihilation at the Battle of Kunersdorf. Directed by Veit Harlan with sweeping cinematic ambition, this historical drama captures the grit and grandeur of Frederick the Great's leadership when all seems lost. The film immerses audiences in the tension of battlefield strategy, political intrigue, and the fragile line between triumph and tragedy. With its grand scale and intense atmosphere, it explores themes of resilience, destiny, and the weight of leadership under pressure.
Otto Gebühr stars as the indomitable king, embodying Frederick's strategic genius in a performance that anchors the film's emotional core. Backed by a stellar ensemble including Kristina Söderbaum and Gustav Fröhlich, the movie delivers a gripping portrayal of one of history's most pivotal military moments. Fans of sweeping historical epics will appreciate its meticulous attention to period detail and the raw intensity of its wartime drama.