Film Actually's 2014 NYFF experience began today with a trio of screenings - "Red Army", "Mr. Turner" and "The Wonders". Read below for my thoughts on these films:
My first screening of the day was a documentary called "Red Army" by director Gabe Polsky. Recounting the history of the titular Red Army hockey team, this film is a fascinating exploration of how sports and politics were intertwined during he Cold War era. From the perspective of someone with only a casual knowledge of the rivalry between North America and the Soviet Union, the film proved to be very insightful.Much of the events depicted are framed around the team's captain Slava Fetisov. Recruited from a young age for the Red Army hockey club, Slava became a key figure in the national team's incredible success during its heyday in the 1980s. Beginning from a place of nationalistic pride, he was instrumental in the team's domination of their Western opponents throughout numerous World Championships and Olympic Games. The key to their success mirrored the country's socialist ideals of teamwork and fierce dedication, triumphing over the aggressive individualism employed by their capitalist opponents. However, as the Cold War came to its end, Slava and his compatriots became critical of the system that made them into political tools for the socialist cause. In Slava's case, it turned him from national hero to pariah (eventually being welcomed back as Minister of Sport).
Slava's journey is an interesting one and it's captured vividly by Polsky. With incredible archival footage and exciting editing, the visual storytelling is as fulsome as a fictional recreation. Much of the film focuses on the creative skills of the Russian technique and there's ample evidence of that here. Likewise, the strong relationships between the players is made very clear. Despite the oppressive regime that hindered their regular lives, you can sense the deep camaraderie between the men. There's also much intrigue to be found in the sociocultural implications of the rivalry, both in the silliness of the politics and the shocking injustices suffered.
What I liked most of all though are the interviews with Slava himself. He's a perceptive and compelling interview subject, with natural wit and profound knowledge of all aspects of the game. Also crucial is that he maintains a fair balance in explaining both the benefits and flaws of Russian socialist culture. Indeed, many of Russia's star players "defected" to the NHL and found that it wasn't a bed of roses. As such you can understand the nostalgia expressed by the now-retired men. It's easy to criticize the flawed idealism and dictatorial structure that they encountered, but there's no denying the immense pride associated with their success.
"Red Army" is a fine example of contemporary documentary filmmaking. It's both highly informative and very entertaining. I'm sure you'll be impressed, whether you already know the history or not. Rating: ★★★★
Reviews of Mr. Turner and The Wonders coming soon.
