Following Tsar Nicholas II (Michael Jayston) and his wife Alexandra (Janet Suzman), Nicholas and Alexandra tells the story of Russia’s last royal family during the years leading up to the Revolution, where their reign crumbled and their family were eventually imprisoned, and consequently executed. The pair struggle to balance their royal duties with the challenges of parenthood, all while becoming increasingly isolated from their own people and the changing world around them. An important and powerful film that captures one of the most pivotal and tragic moments in modern European history.

Director: Franklin J. Schaffner
Writers: Robert K. Massie, Edward Bond, James Goldman
Starring: Michael Jayston, Janet Suzman, Tom Baker, Ian Holm

Directed by Franklin J. Schaffner and written by Robert K. Massie, Edward Bond and James Goldman, Nicholas and Alexandra successfully blends historical truth with elements of dramatisation across its mammoth one-hundred and eighty-nine minute runtime. While from a high level it manages to follow real events, there are moments where the story leans into sensationalism to heighten the drama. Some characters, for instance, are portrayed with added characteristics that aren’t necessarily factual. It’s also worth noting that other films such as Anastasia (1956) also focus on the story of the last Russian royal family, albeit from a slightly different angle. Anastasia (1956) has previously been reviewed on the website and comes highly recommended.

One of the most eye-catching aspects of the flick would have to be the overall authenticity that the filmmakers managed to covey to the audience. The costume and set design were both equally as striking, with the film being nominated for, and winning, Academy Awards for Best Art Direction (Set Decoration) and Best Costume Design, respectively. As well as this, the cinematography is equally as accomplished, though largely filmed in Spain, the production manages to portray a realistic Russian atmosphere and overall feel.

Another strong aspect of the film is its emotionally charged story presented by the filmmakers. They center most of the flick around the family’s slow and eventual downfall, with the pacing reflecting this also. As their world begins to collapse, the family suffers in both emotional and physical ways. As a viewer, you can’t help but feel drawn into their journey and the slow decline that follows them throughout.

In terms of the cast, Michael Jayston adopted the role of Tsar Nicholas II and commanded a large percentage of screentime, while support reigned in from the likes of Janet Suzman and Tom Baker, who starred as Alexandra and Rasputin, respectively. Elsewhere, Roderic Noble, Ania Marson, Lynne Frederick, Candace Glendenning and Fiona Fullerton all take on roles of the family’s children. Another noteworthy performance came from Ian Holm, star of Alien 1 (1971), who appeared as Yakovlev, albeit in a small role towards the end of the movie.

All in all, Nicholas and Alexandra may not be completely accurate historically, but it manages to convey an emotional story with some impressive visuals throughout. The overall length and pacing may be questioned by some critics, but it seems to fit well with the story at hand. If you enjoy historical dramas set over a hundred years ago, this is certainly one worth watching.

“They always kill the good men, the ones who help the most.”

Tsar Nicholas II – Nicholas and Alexandra