Nikolay Cherkasov continues where the initial installment concluded, portraying Sergei Eisenstein's account of this notorious Russian Tsar’s existence. Having achieved a measure of stability for his nation, he endeavors to maintain it. His efforts now include building an army to solidify his authority, even as his aunt Efrosinia (Serafima Birman) continues to advocate for her son Vladimir (Pavel Kadochnikov). With the backing of boyars who are also dissatisfied with his leadership, they plot to remove him from power. While the first segment primarily detailed Ivan IV’s ascent, this second episode gives more attention to those around him; Kadochnikov is convincing as the claimant to the throne, and Birman portrays his manipulative mother effectively, along with his friend "Philip" the monk (Andrei Abrikosov), whom he appoints as the influential Metropolitan Archbishop of Moscow. Numerous other talented actors populate the roles of his soldiers, and some of the previous gloominess gives way—in part due to occasional color sequences—to a sense of cinematic hopefulness. The theme of Russian (Soviet) solidarity remains prominent, but here we begin to see a gentler side to the emperor. He still possesses a capacity for cruelty, but he seems more focused on establishing a solid foundation for his country and its people under his own divinely sanctioned rule, not necessarily securing a successor. The cinematography is close-up and visually impressive; the expressive performances and excellent music further develop the characters in ways that even well-crafted dialogue could not achieve. Nevertheless, the dialogue remains concise and impactful, and the story progresses at an engaging speed. It feels like a genuine look into 16th-century Russian court life, filled with schemes and conspiracies, and I enjoyed it just as much as the first part.

Source on TMDB