This collection delves into the portrayal of elections in Soviet cinema, offering a unique perspective on a political process often shrouded in secrecy and propaganda. These films provide insight into the societal norms, political atmosphere, and the often satirical or critical view of the electoral system during the Soviet era, making them invaluable for understanding the cultural and historical context of the time.
The Ballot (1967)
Description: This film humorously depicts the chaos that ensues when a small village holds its first democratic election, highlighting the absurdity of the process in a Soviet context.
Fact: The film was one of the first to openly critique the Soviet electoral system, albeit in a comedic manner.
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The Candidate (1974)
Description: A satirical look at a man who becomes a candidate for office without any real political ambition, showcasing the manipulation and farce of Soviet elections.
Fact: The film was banned for several years due to its critical portrayal of the election process.
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The Election Day (1982)
Description: This film explores the day-to-day life of a small town during election time, focusing on the personal stories of the residents and their interactions with the electoral process.
Fact: It was one of the last films to be produced before the dissolution of the Soviet Union, reflecting a shift in political attitudes.
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The Choice (1965)
Description: A drama about a young man's decision to participate in the election, reflecting on the moral and ethical dilemmas faced by individuals in a controlled political environment.
Fact: The film was praised for its nuanced portrayal of personal choice within a system of limited options.
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The Secret Ballot (1977)
Description: A film that uses the metaphor of a secret ballot to explore themes of freedom and secrecy in Soviet society, with a focus on the individual's right to privacy.
Fact: It was one of the few films to openly discuss the concept of a secret ballot in the Soviet Union.
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The Campaign (1980)
Description: This film follows the campaign trail of a Soviet politician, offering a satirical look at the political machinations and public relations efforts during election time.
Fact: The film was noted for its realistic depiction of campaign strategies, which were often exaggerated for comedic effect.
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The Vote (1969)
Description: A drama about a factory worker who becomes involved in the election process, highlighting the power dynamics and the influence of the Party on individual votes.
Fact: The film was criticized for its portrayal of the Party's control over elections but was later recognized for its historical accuracy.
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Election Night (1985)
Description: A film that captures the tension and excitement of election night, focusing on the lives of ordinary citizens as they await the results.
Fact: It was one of the first films to show the public's genuine interest in election outcomes.
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The People's Choice (1971)
Description: This film examines the concept of "people's choice" in a Soviet context, questioning the authenticity of the electoral process.
Fact: It was banned for a period due to its questioning of the legitimacy of Soviet elections.
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The Election (1979)
Description: A film that looks at the election from the perspective of a local committee, showing the behind-the-scenes efforts to ensure a "correct" outcome.
Fact: The film was noted for its detailed depiction of the bureaucratic process involved in Soviet elections.
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