Review of Nicholas and Alexandra (1971) by John R — 11 Oct 2007
This movie gets 5 stars for concept and 2 stars for execution. The book upon which it is based is one of the most compelling biographies I have ever read. Translating that history into the oversimplification of film, well, it doesn't quite work.
Nicholas is portrayed as a weak man -- I believe he was stubborn, strong willed, and perhaps not wise enough to bear the burden of his crown, but he was not a weak man. Thus, the core of the film is flawed.
Plus, the issues Nicholas and his people faced are over simplified, and made to appear to be the fault of the Tsar, when things were much more complicated. The revolutionaries (Lenin and Trotsky) get short shrift, and seem almost unwilling to sieze power.
Tom Baker is a wonderful Rasputin, but so many of the characters are portrayed as one dimensional. Alas, the beauty and the majesty of this film are lost on the oversimplification of the Tsar's issues.
It was more than his haemophaliac son and controlling wife that destoyed the Empire. Russia and all of "royal Europe" was a corrupt system rotting from within. This film subtly suggests Nicholas could have prevented the disasters which flowed from WWI.
That is ridiculous of course. Yet, the splendor of this film makes it worthwhile for those interested in this period of history.
This review of Nicholas and Alexandra (1971) was written by John R on 11 Oct 2007.
Nicholas and Alexandra has generally received positive reviews.
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