Marvelous Peter The Great

This is a remarkable film. I saw the original mini series back in the mid 80s. I just saw it again in a 3 VHS casette boxed set from the Tucson Public Library. Now that those years have passed, I appreciate it far more. As a Russian speaking student of Russian history, this epic production holds up very well. The monumental scenery, the authentic costumes, superb acting.
Except for indoor scenes, it was filmed mainly right in the USSR. It's either inside the Kremlin itself or with sets in authentic reproduction. My one complaint is that Peter actually built the wonderful city of St. Petersburg, a major driving force in his life, yet there is only one slight, passing reference to this magnificent act. Something about the Baltic Sea.
When Peter died he was only 53, but this short life span was filled with accomplishments. He was also a truly enlightened man. This is evident and truthfully shown in the film by his opinions on religion and the church.
Helmut Griem gives a great performance as the young Peter, and the film mainly focuses on him. It's amazing that being born in Vienna, Austria, his English is perfect. All the actors are superb and every word is clearly heard - unlike so many films of today when actors barely open their mouths to mumble something unintelligible.
I think this NBC mini series should definately be put on DVD and with a special about details of the production and how it was made.