Traditions for Sale

Since the collapse of communism and the slow emergence of a free market economy, a happy byproduct has been the resurgence of traditional Hungarian folk crafts. Eighty miles northeast of Budapest lies the Matyo region, an area of farms and villages, populated by subsistence farmers and tradesmen. Time runs slower here, and people still do things the old way. For years, Sally Gati and her Hungarian born husband have traveled to the Matyo region and the town of Mezokovesd, making friends with the elderly women who hunch over their kitchen tables sewing colorful and elaborately embroidered shirts, vests, and aprons. These women, many in their eighties and nineties, are inspired by financial need, yet they still invest a lifetime of skill and love into creating these objects. Fortunately, some of these artisans are passing their skills on to the younger generation. This informative look at folk traditions in today's Hungary will leave many viewers ready to hop the next flight to Budapest to scour the shops for these treasures. (Only question not answered by the filmmakers: how expensive are these things?) Enhanced by vintage photographs, traditional music, even a lively mock wedding staged for the growing tourist trade, this entertaining video is strongly recommended for arts and crafts collections. Aud: H, C, P. (S. Rees)