My Perestroika

This is a solid documentary - well worth seeing for anyone who grew up when I did or has any interest in the Cold War.

The film focuses on five classmates who grew up in the 80's in the Soviet Union as their country went through tremendous changes and, of course, eventually suffered political collapse. The film weaves current interviews with the classmates about their lives with home movies of them from the era. It also includes great historical footage from the time as well.

The found footage is great - it almost lends the film a bit of a 7 Up, 14 Up etc. type feel to the film. As a kid, I often wondered what kids my age were like in the Soviet Union. This film goes a long way in answering some of my 9-year-old questions.

Directed by Robin Hessman
2011
PBS