Cataloguing the demise of the Romanovs in the twilight hours of Russia’s Tsarist rule, Nicholas and Alexandra lifts rocks to see what’s wriggling underneath.

Revolting peasants mostly, and the mostly revolting Rasputin, whose influence over Empress Alexandra is absolute.

She’s desperate to save her ailing son, heir to the throne, while her vacillating husband loses control of the empire and knocks off seven million subjects along the way.

As Trotsky rallies the troops with revolutionary zeal, Rasputin reveals his taste for the occult, opium and men. Not what you’d expect of a devout priest (or is it?).

These tumultuous events are revealed in a slow yet delightfully intrusive manner that is both ambitious and intelligent.

Given the lengthy run time, you might want to indulge in the once-fashionable notion of an interval for a cup of Russian Caravan and a slice of cake – good for any romance or revolution.

Did you know…

Nominated for several Oscars including Best Picture, Nicholas and Alexandra collected two for costume and art direction.

This was the last film of Sir Michael Redgrave, father of Lynn and Vanessa, and grandfather of the late Natasha Richardson.

Following a recommendation by Sir Laurence Olivier, Tom Baker (one time Dr Who and narrator of TV’s Little Britain) was picked to play the demonic priest Rasputin. He saw off competition from both Marlon Brando and Peter O’Toole.

Nicholas and Alexandra marks the film debut of Brian Cox (Manhunter, The Escapist). He plays Trotsky.