The Red Orchestra is an intriguing dive into the history of two separate World War II resistance cells which have been granted the same name. These Red Orchestras originally formed in complete isolation from each other; One headed by a ranking member of the Luftwaffe, the other by a Jewish rebel who cut his teeth attempting to form a socialist government in Palestine a decade before. As the war drives on, we see the latter flee his assigned home base in Belgium to set up in Paris soon thereafter.
Peppered throughout the documentary are snippets of two films, One from East Berlin and the other from West Berlin, depicting the struggles of these freedom fighters. Both films as well as history seek to slander and redbait these groups which would become known as The Red Orchestra since one group was directly funded by the Russian state during its inception as well as the leftist leanings of many of both group’s members. This excellent documentary points out the fallacies, Nazi lies, Soviet embarrassments, and newly uncovered history which tells a truer story of these Red Orchestras.
The major weakness of this film is the overambitious nature of The Red Orchestra’s scope. While using the classic films as a dramatic backdrop is an outstanding touch, It’s rarely stated which of the two films is being shown and the analysis of these films jerks us from the 1930s and 40s into the 60s and 70s and Cold War era politics with little grace. Those looking for a comprehensive film analysis of either film dramatization may be disappointed. Those looking for a compelling history documentary or a spy story, however, will find much enjoyment in The Red Orchestra.
To add compelling information, correct false assumptions, and reveal new additions to the historical narrative, expert historians, grandchildren of several Red Orchestra members, and the son of one pair of spies lend their voices to this documentary. The points raised by these experts expand the narrative of the Red Orchestra to act as a case study to understand some early Cold War political actions.
Former Nazi and Red Army politicians and officials grasped at every scapegoat and straw of legitimacy to divert attention from the atrocities and blunders of the Second World War committed by their orders and hands including fabricating the idea of ‘Soviet agents among us’ using the Red Orchestras’ existences as proof. Those seeking a WWII documentary that looks beyond the front line should consider The Red Orchestra first. Highly Recommended.
What type of library programming could use this title?
Any programming centered around World War II, espionage, or resistance movements could benefit from the addition of The Red Orchestra.
What public library shelves does this title belong on?
The Red Orchestra would be most at home on WWII documentary shelves but would also easily fit in biography collections.
What academic library shelves does this title belong on?
Professors of history or music should consider adding this title to their syllabus.