Review of The Life of Emile Zola

The weakest part of The Life of Emile Zola is, unfortunately, the title character. Paul Muni's portrayal of the famous author is melodramatic and, frankly, annoying. It's only when the film gets to story of Alfred Dreyfus that it finally gains some traction. Based strictly on filmmaking innovation and cultural impact, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs should have won in 1937 instead of this movie.