Rural Russia

The closed nature of the former Soviet Union combined with the sprawling remoteness of the countryside has made rural Russia an unknown territory to most Americans, yet it is here that experts insist the real soul of "mother Russia" resides. This film takes the viewer on a whirlwind tour of rural Russia, showing some of its people, farms, and the rivers that serve as the country's lifeline. Of course, just because the area is rural doesn't mean it is always pastoral or pleasant; in fact, much of the countryside is befouled with pollution and inappropriate development, a result of former Communist rulers attempting to bring employment to far-flung provinces. All is not bleak in the hinterland, however, and the program visits a few hard working Russian farmers struggling to make it in Russia's new economic system, as well as a selection of dachas, those much loved retreats where ordinary Russians seek relief from the daily stress of life. This is an interesting, offbeat look at a rarely seen side of a great country. Unfortunately, the first and last third of the film sags and drags a bit, and I would have welcomed more glimpses of Russian sports, games, recreation, and child rearing customs, as well as tighter organization and focus overall. Marginal for large travel collections. Aud: C, P. (S. Rees)