Emperor Jones Poster

Emperor Jones 1933

★ 5.525 votes73 min📅 1933-09-29

"GIN...GALS...DICE AND MURDER MADE HIM A FUGITIVE IN THE NIGHT! BUT MORNING FOUND HIM A KING!"

Emperor Jones (1933) plunges viewers into a gripping tale of ambition and survival set against the backdrop of a Caribbean island.

Director: Dudley Murphy

Cast

Paul Robeson
Paul Robeson
Brutus Jones
Dudley Digges
Dudley Digges
Smithers
Frank H. Wilson
Frank H. Wilson
Jeff
Fredi Washington
Fredi Washington
Undine
Ruby Elzy
Ruby Elzy
Dolly
George Haymid Stamper
Lem
Billie Holiday
Billie Holiday
Extra in Nightclub Scene
Moms Mabley
Moms Mabley
Marcella
Rex Ingram
Rex Ingram
Court Crier
Harold Nicholas
Harold Nicholas
Young Tap Dancer

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Emperor Jones (1933) about?

Emperor Jones (1933) tells the story of Brutus Jones, a ruthless fugitive who escapes from prison and seizes control of a Caribbean island through sheer bluff and manipulation. His journey from convict to self-proclaimed emperor is marked by danger, deception, and the looming threat of his violent past.

Who directed Emperor Jones?

Emperor Jones was directed by Dudley Murphy, a filmmaker known for his innovative approach to storytelling in early cinema.

Who stars in Emperor Jones?

The film features Paul Robeson in the lead role, supported by Dudley Digges, Fredi Washington, Ruby Elzy, and George Haymid Stamper.

Is Emperor Jones (1933) worth watching?

While Emperor Jones is a classic drama with historical significance, its pacing and themes may not appeal to every modern viewer. However, Paul Robeson's performance and the film's atmospheric storytelling make it a notable watch for fans of early cinema and dramatic narratives.

How long is Emperor Jones?

Emperor Jones has a runtime of 73 minutes.

About Emperor Jones (1933) — A Classic Drama of Power and Deception

Emperor Jones (1933) plunges viewers into a gripping tale of ambition and survival set against the backdrop of a Caribbean island. Directed by Dudley Murphy, this dramatic film follows Brutus Jones, a ruthless fugitive who escapes from prison after a brutal act and reinvents himself as the island's self-proclaimed emperor. Through sheer audacity and a veneer of power, Jones manipulates his way into authority, only to face the haunting consequences of his past. With its rich atmosphere, the movie explores themes of deception, colonialism, and the fragility of power.

Starring Paul Robeson in a standout role, Emperor Jones blends drama with musical elements, creating a layered narrative that's as thought-provoking as it is visually striking. The film's tight 73-minute runtime keeps the tension high, making it a compelling watch for fans of classic cinema and historical dramas alike.