Many of us became interested in the Romanovs after seeing Nicholas and Alexandra. Speaking for myself, the film haunted my thoughts from the moment I stepped outside the theater, and since that time I have spent many exciting hours in a number of university and public libraries, tracing down books and other materials that Robert Massie had consulted in writing his book, then going beyond his bibliography to review additional materials.
The film is just that . . . a film. It is, by virtue of its cinematography, more than a play, but still less than reality. It attempts, as do other history-based films, to present a time which no longer exists. It does not present everything just as it was, moment by moment, person by person, but is instead a dramatic representation. In this I think it succeeds magnificently. I could quibble--and have, on other threads--about certain individual aspects of the film, but all the same it remains my introduction to and inspiration for a life-long obsession, and I am grateful to everyone who played a part in making the film a reality.
Also, I second Robert regarding comments about the actors. Furthermore, if Ania Marson ever happens to visit this website, I would like her to know how much I appreciated and continue to appreciate her portrayal of Olga. True, Ms. Marson's nose is not the retroussé feature which inspired adolescent despair from the actual grand duchess. But it is nose that suits Ms. Marson, and each time I see Nicholas and Alexandra I am reminded of how well her wide-spaced eyes and intelligent demeanor represent the look of Nicholas and Alexandra's oldest daughter.