Nicholas and Alexandra (1971)

In the majestic yet tumultuous landscape of early 20th century Russia, "Nicholas and Alexandra" (1971) unfolds the riveting narrative of the Romanov dynasty’s final years. From the birth of Prince Alexei in 1904 to the tragic execution of the entire family in 1918, this epic tale resonates with the stark contrast between the opulent lives of the last absolute rulers of Europe and the abject poverty of the majority of Russians. As the country becomes embroiled in a costly war with Japan over the Korean peninsula, the obstinate Czar Nicholas (Michael Jayston) disregards counsel to end the conflict, mirroring his father's stern policies and retaining unyielding control. Meanwhile, the undercurrents of revolution stir, with the Bolsheviks led by Vladimir Lenin (Michael Bryant), Joseph Stalin (James Hazeldine), and Leon Trotsky (Brian Cox) gradually gaining ground. With the onset of World War I, the Czar's imprudent decision to authorize a general mobilization, against wiser advice, brings calamity upon Russia. In parallel, Czarina Alexandra's (Janet Suzman) unwavering reliance on the enigmatic Father Grigori, known as Rasputin (Tom Baker), for guidance further estranges the royal family from their dwindling band of supporters. The tale delves into the private lives of Nicholas and Alexandra, their four daughters, and their only son - a portrait of a family bound together by a painful secret and their ties to the mystical Rasputin. As starvation ravages the Russian populace and general strikes spread like wildfire, the Czar is compelled to abdicate, marking the rise of Bolshevik power and the Romanovs' descent into captivity. "Nicholas and Alexandra" is a poignant exploration of power, revolution, and the human stories caught in their wake, set against the vibrant and volatile backdrop of the Russian Revolution. With the Romanovs' final chapter written in blood, this saga is a haunting testament to a dynasty extinguished and a nation forever changed.

Nicholas and Alexandra is a drama movie featuring Michael Jayston.

Nicholas and Alexandra is currently streaming for free (ad-supported) on Tubi TV and it's also available on fuboTV.

It is also possible to buy Nicholas and Alexandra on Amazon Video, Apple TV, DIRECTV, Google Play Movies, Microsoft Store, Vudu and YouTube.