Nicholas and Alexandra

Nicholas and Alexandra, directed by Franklin Schaffner and released in 1971, is a captivating and deeply-moving historical drama that dramatizes the end of the Romanov dynasty in Russia. The film stars Michael Jayston as Tsar Nicholas II, Janet Suzman as his wife, Alexandra, and Roderic Noble as their son Alexei.

The movie strives to salvage the human story from the cataclysmic events that befell the last imperial family of Russia. Defying romanticism and nostalgia, the narrative explores the history and political events leading up to Nicholas II’s abdication from the throne in 1917, and his family’s subsequent brutal murder by the Bolsheviks in 1918.

Our introduction to the imperial family is intimate, portraying Nicholas II as more than just a Tsar, but also as a husband and father. Michael Jayston gives a committed performance, portraying Nicholas with a sense of passion and belief in the autocratic traditions passed down to him. He's shown as a content family man, but also as a hesitant leader, not entirely equipped to handle the seismic political shifts ravaging his country.

Janet Suzman, in her portrayal of Tsarina Alexandra, offers an incredibly nuanced performance. She effortlessly captures the complex character that history often dismisses as simply the tsarina who fell under the spell of a monk, Rasputin, played by Tom Baker. Suzman's Alexandra is a devoted wife, a loving but anxious mother, especially regarding her heir Alexei's hemophilia, and a zealous believer in the divine rights of the monarchy.

Roderic Noble's portrayal of Alexei, the heir apparent, rightfully balances the pressures of his future role and his boyish innocence. Alexei is central to the narrative, not just for his birthright, but also because of his illness, hemophilia, which was one of the reasons Rasputin became so factional in the family.

The film also delves into the turbulent political arena racked by war and political unrest. Distinguished performers, including Laurence Olivier as Count Witte and Michael Redgrave as Sazonov, bring a touch of gravity to the film’s portrayal of political maneuverings and military strategies. They provide a stark picture of the internal divisions and external pressures that led to the collapse of the Tsarist regime.

The aesthetic beauty of Nicholas and Alexandra cannot be understated. This film revels in its representation of the lavish Romanov lifestyle, contrasting sharply with the rough, grim conditions of Russia’s underclass. It’s visually striking with detailed period costumes by Yvonne Blake and stunning art direction by John Graysmark, providing a dazzling portrayal of the Romanov’s grand palaces and delicate Fabergé eggs. This makes the viewer appreciate just how far the Romanovs were removed from the harsh realities outside their palace walls. Similarly, the cinematography by Freddie Young beautifully captures the diverse landscapes of Russia, reinforcing the film’s epic scale.

Nicholas and Alexandra is more than just a historical drama. It delves deep into the personal tale of a family swept up in the wheel of fortune. The human drama of the Tsar and his family is intertwined with the broader narrative of Russia's tumultuous political history, providing an engaging study of power and its downfall. What makes the movie exceptional is its ability to show us the private tragedy overshadowed by the public catastrophe. The movie runs for a generous 183 minutes which, despite sounding extensive, is utilized effectively to develop characters, establish connections, and portray the royal family's rise and downfall.

Nicholas and Alexandra successfully combines an intimate portrayal of a family with an epic narrative of a nation’s revolution. It is both a film about individual characters and the larger historical currents that carry them along. The performances are excellent, particularly those of Michael Jayston and Janet Suzman in the lead roles. The movie is a grand historical epic, filled with stunning visuals and gripping performances that shed light on a fascinating and tragic period in world history. This is certainly a film meant to be savored, providing an unforgettable cinematic experience that brilliantly captures the personal and political turmoil of Nicolas II and his family. Whether you're a history buff or not, this movie is a powerful account of a compelling story that deserves attention.