The Face of Russia

An excellent and compelling look at the current state of affairs in Russia as seen through the prism of Russia's artistic heritage, this three-tape series is written and narrated by Dr. James H. Billington, the Librarian of Congress and a thorough-going expert on Russian art and culture. The first program, The Face on the Firewood, examines the painting of icons and the artistic impact of the Russian conversion to Orthodox Christianity in the Middle Ages. We're also treated to detailed looks at several famous Russian monasteries and churches and Byzantine-influenced murals painted within these holy structures. The second episode, The Facade of Power, brings us to the world of 18th-century Russia and two of the most famous women rulers in history: Elizabeth and Catherine II (The Great). The final episode, Facing the Future, delineates the impact of music, the stage and cinema on 19th and early 20th century Russia, focusing on artists like Sergei Eisenstein and Musorgsky. The filmmakers also take a look at how both traditional and new media art forms are playing a role in the emerging political and social systems in Russia today. The Face of Russia is a unique look at Mother Russia, informed by the erudite and insightful commentary of Dr. Billington, whose fascination with, and love of, Russian culture informs his every remark and gives the viewer an almost intimate sense of the Russian people and the passion that underpins their art forms. Highly recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (P. Van Vleck)