Groznyj (2020) is a visually striking Russian historical drama that chronicles the rise and reign of Ivan IV, known as Ivan the Terrible. The series presents a complex portrait of a ruler shaped by trauma, ambition, and an unrelenting drive to consolidate power, blending political intrigue with psychological exploration.

The lead performance is commanding, capturing Ivan’s transformation from an idealistic young monarch into a paranoid and ruthless autocrat. Supporting characters enrich the narrative by embodying the competing forces of loyalty, fear, and betrayal that define court life. The production values are impressive, with detailed costumes, atmospheric set design, and moody cinematography that reinforce the era’s brutality and grandeur.

What sets Groznyj apart is its emphasis on the psychological cost of absolute power. Rather than offering a simplified historical account, the series probes the moral decay and emotional isolation that accompany tyranny. Dark, intense, and meticulously crafted, Groznyj stands as a compelling historical series for viewers drawn to character-driven portrayals of power and its destructive consequences.