Mad man, genius, wizard Foreign films about the history of Russia is long overdue to highlight in a special category of cinema, filled with various clichés in the form of vodka, nesting dolls and bears in head hats. Recall at least the glorious Disney cartoon about Anastasia, where in the early 20th century at our ball nobles in kokoshnikov dance. The lyrical retreat is over. So, what's my point? I came across an interesting English film about the decline of the Russian monarchy.
How I came to this film, it is easy to guess, looking at the cast. Ian McKellen as Nicholas II, Alan Rickman as Gregory Rasputin... I couldn't get past. The movie I got in the best translation, but even this did not spoil the impression. The creators managed not only not to shove a single “stamp of the Russian soul” into the film, but also not even to disfigure the story. Moreover, some episodes are so true to the slightest detail that documentaries about Rasputin do not compare.
Of course, the plot does not promise any shock to the viewer, even slightly familiar with this story. But watching the film from beginning to end is certainly worth admiring the most beautiful acting. The royal couple was successful. The Empress absolutely believes in all her feelings, her pain, fear, suffering. Gandalf in the role of Nicholas II to see at least unexpectedly. In my opinion, he is noticeably old for this role, although the acting is certainly on top.
And of course, Alan Rickman. A great actor, whom you love more and more after watching a picture with his participation. Impossibly brilliant, and his look is just something charming, hypnotic and magical. What's remarkable is that I didn't catch myself looking at Severus Snape. It was Rasputin, ambiguous, suffering, the brightest healer and depraved madman with fascinating eyes.
The only thing I would disagree with is the slogan on the poster. I do not believe that it was Rasputin who destroyed the empire.
10 out of 10
