The Emigrant Poster

The Emigrant 1940

★ 6.01 votes109 min📅 1940-01-29

Set against the backdrop of mid-20th century South Africa, *The Emigrant* (1940) follows a woman fleeing a vengeful gangster, hoping to start anew in the bustling mining towns of Johannesburg.

Director: Léo Joannon

Cast

Edwige Feuillère
Edwige Feuillère
Christiane Vallier
Jean Chevrier
Jean Chevrier
François Champart
Georges Lannes
Georges Lannes
Tino
Foun-Sen
Annamite on crutches
Palmyre Levasseur
Palmyre Levasseur
Nun of the Lisbon hospice
Jacques Vitry
Jacques Vitry
Commissioner
Edmond van Daële
Edmond van Daële
Emigrant
Philippe Richard
Philippe Richard
Head doctor
Serge Nadaud
Serge Nadaud
Officer
Marcel Pérès
Marcel Pérès
Gaston, emigrant

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Emigrant (1940) about?

This 1940 French drama-comedy follows a woman who leaves her past behind and sails to South Africa's mining towns, seeking safety and a fresh start under the shadows of a vengeful gangster. Along the way, she encounters fellow emigrants—each with their own stories of struggle and hope.

Who directed The Emigrant?

The Emigrant was directed by Léo Joannon, a French filmmaker known for blending drama with subtle humor in his storytelling.

Who stars in The Emigrant?

The film features a standout cast led by Edwige Feuillère, Jean Chevrier, Georges Lannes, Foun-Sen, and Palmyre Levasseur.

Is The Emigrant (1940) worth watching?

*The Emigrant* may lack the polish of modern cinema, but its heartfelt storytelling and engaging performances make it a hidden gem for fans of classic drama-comedy. Given its vintage charm and thematic depth, it's a curiosity worth exploring for cinephiles and casual viewers alike.

How long is The Emigrant?

The Emigrant runs for 109 minutes—just shy of two hours of immersive storytelling.

About The Emigrant (1940) — A Tale of Escape, Hope, and the Unexpected

Set against the backdrop of mid-20th century South Africa, *The Emigrant* (1940) follows a woman fleeing a vengeful gangster, hoping to start anew in the bustling mining towns of Johannesburg. Directed by Léo Joannon, this French drama-comedy weaves a tale of survival, reinvention, and the human spirit's resilience in the face of danger. With rich character dynamics and atmospheric tension, the film explores themes of escape, redemption, and the unexpected bonds formed by those chasing distant dreams. Stars Edwige Feuillère and Jean Chevrier deliver compelling performances, anchoring a story as much about human connection as it is about geographical displacement.

Scattered with moments of both levity and gravitas, *The Emigrant* paints a vivid portrait of the emigrant experience—where hope and hardship walk hand in hand. The film's understated yet poignant narrative lingers, revealing the hidden struggles behind every fresh start. At its core, it's a story that resonates with anyone who's ever dared to leave the familiar behind, even if just for a chance at something better.