Rasputin and the Empress

Rasputin and the Empress is a 1932 pre-code American historical drama film that unfolded against the tumultuous backdrop of early twentieth-century Russia. The thrilling narration brings together American film and theater royalty - John Barrymore, Ethel Barrymore, and Lionel Barrymore under the same banner, all performing strikingly in entirely separate roles. This Barrymore-triumvirate, with their captivating performances, unfurls a tale that's replete with power, deceit, and manipulation.

Directed by Richard Boleslawski and produced by the Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, the film begins with a meticulous exploration into the murky, mystical figure of Grigori Rasputin, captivatingly portrayed by Lionel Barrymore. The magnetism of Lionel's portrayal lies in his faithful reflection of Rasputin's dominating persona as not just a 'mad monk', but a central character influencing the Russian political scenario. Lionel’s Rasputin is beguiling, malevolent, and endearingly eccentric, thus encapsulating the enigma the real-life character continues to be.

John Barrymore plays the role of Prince Paul Chegodieff, a character loosely based on Prince Felix Yusupov. Prince Paul, as John masterfully embodies, is an intriguing character torn between his loyalty to the monarchy and his country's impending doom, constantly navigating the rough terrains of morality and duty. John instills the character with a delicate blend of nobility and inner turmoil, making the audience sympathize with his dilemmas.

Ethel Barrymore, the only woman among the Barrymores, delivers a par-excellence performance as Tsarina Alexandria. In her role, Ethel depicts the struggling mother, the worrisome wife, and a hesitant ruler. Her marital affection, motherly love, and her desperate hope in Rasputin form the essence of her character. It’s through Ethel’s acting prowess that we witness the soft underbelly of a stern royal regime.

A historic drama of such magnitude would be incomplete without adequate antagonistic tension. Lionel Barrymore's Grigori Rasputin brilliantly fills in these shoes. His portrayal of the manipulative, self-proclaimed holy man who held an eerie sway over the Russian royal family during the First World War period is both unsettling and powerful.

The plot is carefully crafted around the lives and events surrounding the Russian Royal family, most notably their relationship with Rasputin. We witness the rising influence of Rasputin and his psychological hold over the Tsarina, who reluctantly relies on him to heal her hemophiliac son, Tsarevich Alexei. The tensions and anxieties of the imperial family, coupled with the political turmoil wracking Russia during the brink of revolution, form the bedrock of the movie.

A considerable highlight of the movie is the interaction between the characters, especially between the Barrymore siblings. John's and Ethel's characters provide an emotional counter to Lionel's more flamboyant Rasputin. The contrasting dynamics of these characters bring out the best of the narrative, making it more engaging.

The film does a fantastic job of setting up the historical context, with impressive detailing to costumes and set designs that recreate a believable vision of the Russian Empire during its final years. Technically, the movie is nothing short of a masterpiece, with Lucien N. Andriot’s cinematography adding a visually theatrical ambiance that complements the spiraling narrative.

However, it's important to point out that the movie takes creative liberties with historical facts to suit the cinematic narrative. But the factual inconsistencies do not detract from the film's quality or the engrossing performances of the cast. After all, this is a dramatic portrayal of a period in history, not a documentary.

Rasputin and the Empress paints a vivid picture of a crucial era in Russian history and brings to life some of its most controversial figures. Barring the historic liberties, the screenplay, direction, and performance - particularly of the Barrymore trio, make this film an engaging watch. It added a successfully dramatic chapter to the much-speculated and mystified story of Rasputin and his influence over the last Tsar of Russia.

In essence, Rasputin and the Empress is a spectacular showcase of the Barrymores' collective talent and a memorable depiction of one of history's most tumultuous periods. It leaves an undeniable mark as one of the early classics of Hollywood's golden era of filmmaking.