Last of the Czars

Previously unseen footage, old letters, and rare photos enhance this production of the Romanov family's problems, which led to their tragic deaths and the end of monarchy in Russia. The Discovery Channel film, Last of the Czars, Pt. 1: Nicky & Alix brings the principal players to life, as the viewer learns about the Czar and Czarina, known as Nicky and Alix, their five children, and the mad monk, Rasputin. The Royal family lived a life of luxury, unaware of the general condition of the country and its growing unrest. This turmoil would lead to the execution of the entire family.

Rasputin, the infamous Russian monk, was a profound influence on the last Czar and Czarina, and some feel that Russia was, for a time, ruled by the madman who found a way to the center of the royal court. The only son of the family suffered from the pain of hemophilia, and Rasputin was the only person able to provide comfort to the young prince. Last of the Czars, Pt. 2: The Shadow of Rasputin details the growing unease surrounding the last monarchy of Russia, and how the monk exerted his power over them all, especially the Czarina.

Keeping his distance from the needs of his country, Czar Nicholas could not see the warning signs that trumpeted the toppling of the monarchy. The Discovery Channel production, Last of the Czars, Pt. 3: The Death of the Dynasty explores the events leading up to the execution of the entire royal family in 1918. Utilizing archival film and previously unseen photographs, the story of the doomed family unfolds amid the unrest of a war-ravaged Russian population. Survivors from the era of the Romanovs reveal details pertaining to the family.