Watch Rasputin

Rasputin is a historically-driven Russian drama miniseries that premiered in 2013. It is produced by the giant Russian network Channel One Russia and directed by the award-winning filmmaker Alexandr Baranov. The miniseries offers an unusual representation of the legendary figure of Grigori Rasputin, and presents a different perspective on the life of one of the most controversial figures in Russian history.

Rasputin is a six-part historical series that portrays the life of the Siberian peasant Grigori Rasputin (played by Vladimir Mashkov) and his influence over the Royal Family during the turbulent period of Imperial Russia. The series also focuses on his enigmatic connection with the Tsarina Alexandra Feodorovna (played by Ekaterina Klimova) and his alleged control over the last days of the Romanov dynasty.

The show opens with Rasputin's early life in Siberia and his early days as a wanderer before he moves to St. Petersburg. He is shown as an ordinary man with extraordinary powers, which he uses to mesmerize people with his religious preaching and healing abilities. With his ability to cure the hemophilia of Tsarevich Alexei, Rasputin earns favor with the Royal Family, and they invite him to their palace where he quickly gains more power and influence.

Despite his holy image and apparent kindness, Rasputin's behavior becomes erratic, and he falls into the abyss of drinking, womanizing, and manipulating people. The show portrays him as an eccentric, larger-than-life character who's ability to influence the Romanovs becomes a source of threat to many influential people in the royal court. His presence is seen as an obstacle for the reformists and liberals, and soon he becomes a target for conspiracies seeking to eliminate him.

Adding layers of complexity to the plot, the series also shows the internal struggles of the Tsar and Tsarina as they try to maintain a balance between their love for their son and their responsibility towards the empire. The reality of the economic and social issues of the time is also a backdrop to the drama, adding tension to the plot, making the audience feel in the midst of the historical events.

The cast of Rasputin is incredibly diverse and delivers strong performances. Vladimir Mashkov, who plays Rasputin, is an accomplished and charismatic actor who embodies the essence of the mad monk's recklessness. His portrayal of Rasputin is nuanced and multi-dimensional, showcasing the polarising yet fascinating character of Rasputin. His ability to impact the people around him makes him both dangerous and compelling.

Ekaterina Klimova, who plays the Tsarina Alexandra Fedorvna, is equally impressive in her role. She delivers a performance filled with pathos and tenderness portraying the Royal Family's love for each other and the tragic circumstances that led to their downfall. Klimova's character is the perfect counterpart to Mashkov's Rasputin, and the chemistry between the pair creates an intense relationship which adds to the show's intriguing and intense drama.

The cinematography and production design of Rasputin are astonishing, transported to the era of imperial Russia with detailed settings and costume design. Careful attention has been paid to the smallest of details, from the elaborate palaces with their ornate designs, to the lush gardens and the intricate costumes the cast wears. The show's visual elements help immerse the viewer and transport them to the 1900s.

In summary, Rasputin is an intense, dramatic and compelling TV miniseries that challenges the traditional portrayal of Grigori Rasputin. By highlighting the complexity of his character and the historical context of the events surrounding him, the show creates a gripping insight into the life of the controversial figure who, despite being a significant shadow in Russian history, remains as enigmatic and controversial as ever. With such a fascinating portrayal of Rasputin and his alleged influence on the royal family, the show is one of the best of its genre, leaving the viewer spellbound from beginning to end.

Rasputin is a series that ran for 1 seasons (8 episodes) between and on Janson Media