Nicholas and Alexandra (1971)

VHS CASE/ SIDE

MPAA Certificate Number: 22875

Length of film:  183 Minutes

Rated: GP   

Genre: Biography, Drama, History

Director: Franklin J. Schaffner

Starring: Michael Jayston, Janet Suzman, Roderic Noble, Ania Marson, Tom Baker, Laurence Olivier, Jack Hawkins

IMDB Rank: 7.2/10

Part 1 Time:  89 Minutes 

Part 2 Time:  99 Minutes

Where does the first part end? Tsar Nicholas II (Michael Jayston) and the Romanov royal family address the Russian army prior to the soldiers leaving to fight in the First World War.

Final line of dialogue on the first part: “God save the Tasr” soldiers chant together as they leave Russia to fight in World War I.

First line of dialogue on the second part: “There is no transport, can they walk?” Russian officer speaks to a lower grade officer about the Russian army regiment.

How jarring is it when the first part ends? Minimal, Tsar Nicholas is still the supreme ruler of Russia, but his power is dwindling. The royal family watches as Russian soldiers leave for the Great War. Can his involvement in World War I bring back the respect of the Russian people and his image as head of the Russian state? 

Which part is better? The film accurately depicts the life of Russian royalty in the early 20th century. In part one, we are introduced to the main advisors and inter workings of the Romanov royal family. In part two, we see the Romanov’s fall from grace and the chaos that ensues. Due to the chaos and tragedy that befalls the Romanov’s royal family part two is given the edge.

Academy Awards: Best Art Direction-Set Decoration, Best Costume Design, Best Picture (Nominated), Best Leading Actress (Nominated-Janet Suzman), Best Cinematography (Nominated), Best Music-Original Dramatic Score (Nominated).