Secrets of Palace Coup d'Etat. Russia, 18th Century. Film №1. Testament Emperor is a gripping 2000 Russian historical drama that plunges viewers into the turbulent aftermath of Peter the Great’s death on January 25, 1725. Directed by Svetlana Druzhinina, this 80-minute film kicks off an ambitious series exploring the era of palace coups, beginning with the cryptic final words of the emperor: 'Give it all...' With no clear successor named in his will, Russia spirals into a century-long power struggle, marked by intrigue, betrayal, and bloodshed, as factions vie for the throne. The film centers on the chaotic succession following Peter’s demise, spotlighting the rise of Catherine I (Natalya Yegorova) and her cunning lover, Alexander Menshikov (Sergei Shakurov), who seize control amidst the palace’s opulent yet treacherous halls. Nikolai Karachentsov delivers a commanding portrayal of Peter the Great, his towering legacy looming over the ensuing scramble. Rich with period detail and dramatic tension, 'Testament Emperor' captures the ruthless ambition and fragile alliances that defined Russia’s 18th-century political landscape, setting the stage for the series’ deep dive into a dynasty in disarray. Released in 2000, this opening chapter of Druzhinina’s saga blends historical gravitas with cinematic flair, offering a window into a pivotal moment when the Romanov empire teetered on the edge. Its 80-minute runtime is dense with palace conspiracies and personal stakes, making it a compelling start to a broader exploration of Russia’s coup-ridden history. For fans of historical epics, 'Testament Emperor' is a vivid, character-driven plunge into a time when power was won not by right, but by will.
Year2000
Runtime80 min
GenresHistoryDrama
Production countriesRussia
