Peter the Great (1986– )

This is the story of Peter I, Tsar of Russia from 1682, and the constant struggle between him, his sister Sophia and the Streltsy, an important Russian military corp. The story depicts the ... See full summary »

Stars:

Maximilian Schell, Vanessa Redgrave, Omar Sharif

Nominated for 3 Golden Globes. Another 5 wins & 4 nominations.

Cast

Series cast summary:
Maximilian Schell	...	Peter the Great

Storyline

This is the story of Peter I, Tsar of Russia from 1682, and the constant struggle between him, his sister Sophia and the Streltsy, an important Russian military corp. The story depicts the efforts of Peter in transforming Russia in an "all European" country, importing scientists, costumes, technology and military tactics.

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Plot Keywords:

russia | costume | part documentary | russian history | torture | 

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Genres:

Biography | Drama | History | War

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Details

Country:

USA

Language:

English

Release Date:

2 February 1986 (USA)

Also Known As:

Peter der Große

Filming Locations:

Moscow, Russia

Company Credits

Production Co:

NBC Productions

Technical Specs

Runtime:

371 min 360 min (4 parts)

Sound Mix:

Mono

Color:

Color

Aspect Ratio:

1.33 : 1

Did You Know?

Trivia

The original producer/director Lawrence Schiller was fired after NBC was informed the project was going over budget. It was only after he was replaced that it was revealed the budget information was based on accounting error and not a production problem. Then, the lead actor left in the middle of production to direct an opera and only returned several weeks later.

User Reviews

A very entertaining movie. Excellent performances.

I read a prior comment and was rather shocked. I was always taught that if entertainment becomes too like real-life, it ceases to be entertainment. That one should suspend one's disbelief for the term of the film - unless the film is claiming to be a documentary or to be of educational value.

Anyhow, I am not a Russian ex-patriot. I'm an American, born and bred. I loved this movie! My father is an History professor. I was well aware that the film was not entirely historically accurate. I will grant you that by 1986, one would wish to have a bit more accuracy regarding the major historical events.

I must disagree that there was a prophetic quality to the 'visionary aspects' of the character Peter the Great. I felt that it came across more as a burning passion. He seemed better educated and thus possessed of a better understanding of what the 'Western European' knowledge/technology could do to help strengthen Russia.

Maximilian Schell is perfect in this role! Although he is a Austrian actor, he is the epitome of a burly Russian Czar.

If you are looking for historical accuracy - look elsewhere. If you are looking for an intense, sweep-me-away drama filled with riveting acting

• you've chosen well.