Well, let’s face it. Russia is fairly topical at the moment. But how did we get here? Well, any story about Russia has to include the Romanovs, who ruled for 300 years. The Last Czars is an ambitious attempt by Netflix to blend historical documentary with dramatized storytelling, chronicling their downfall —and the rise of the Bolsheviks. The result is an intriguing, visually lavish production that succeeds in moments but often struggles to find its identity.

The lavish costumes, ornate set designs, and snowy Russian landscapes evoke the grandeur—and isolation—of the Romanov dynasty. The performances, especially Robert Jack as Tsar Nicholas II and Susanna Herbert as Alexandra, bring depth to historical figures often seen as symbols rather than people. And rather flawed people they turn out to be.

At times, I felt sympathetic to their plight as their Empire collapsed around them. Other times, not so much as they make one poor decision after another. The Bolsheviks shouldn’t have shot the children, but Nicholas II and Alexandra cared little for the ordinary Russian. It reminds me of someone, I can’t quite put my finger on it.

The most interesting character is, of course, Rasputin. He is someone I have always been interested in. A religious man. God saves sinners; therefore, it is important to sin. Only then can you ask for forgiveness. He tries his best to drink and to make love to as many women as possible. God bless, he loves his God. The Romanovs fall under his spell, a sick son creating a wedge between them and their people (well, she’s German, it’s complicated).

The inclusion of documentary-style narration and expert interviews gives the viewer valuable historical grounding. However, this same hybrid format is also the show’s greatest weakness. The constant switching between drama and documentary can feel jarring, breaking immersion and undercutting any attachment to what is happening.

Personally, I found it a bit of a struggle to keep watching. Three stars out of five for me. If you’re committed to hours of TV every day, give it a try. If time is precious, there is much better out there.

But let me know what you think? Have you seen it?