My Oscar video pick of the week is a film from 1937 that tells the exciting story of prolific French author Emile Zola. Zola spent his life fighting for truth and justice and the conspiracies and lies that hid within the French army and government. His life really got interesting when he took on the case of Alfred Dreyfus, a French Captain who was wrongfully accused of treason. Based on evidence he received, Zola took on the French army and ended up being tried himself. His libel case, which is the centerpiece of the film, is frustratingly farcical. Most of the case and questions can't be heard or asked because they could compromise national security. The film still resonates today in light of Abu Ghraib and false reasons for going to war. The lies, cover ups and scandals of the present day government are echoed in this film as Zola tries desperately to get to the truth. Joseph Schildkraut, who plays Dreyfus, won the Supporting Actor Oscar. It was the second such Oscar ever handed out. Paul Muni, who plays Zola, and so memorably played Louis Pasteur the year before, almost became the first actor to win back to back Oscars. He lost out to Spencer Tracy, who ironically did become the first actor to win back to back Oscars. Thankfully the film has a satisfying ending as the truth about Dreyfus is revealed and we are shown, once again, that deceit and secrets never stay hidden. The film also won the best picture of 1937 and if you like a good courtroom drama this movie is for you. Muni acts his heart out in the role and the film also features Gale Sondergaard who won the first Supporting Actress Oscar the previous year.

Enjoy your day and pray for our sisters and brothers in the South.

paul