Vilnius: The Symbol of a New Europe

Probably the only travel video about Lithuania's capital in existence (and I'm not sure where Vilnius is located, are you?), this patchwork production features some beautiful cinematography undercut by jarring editing as we watch MTV style montages strangely set to traditional religious music. The narration tends to be a little wooden, and we're often told about fascinating things but not shown them (in one church in Vilnius for example, a statue of Jesus is said to always follow visitors with its eyes--the filmmaker is content with a 2 second long shot from a distance). On the semi-bright side, the video often changes style and topic abruptly. Just when we are getting a little tired of church montages, we are treated to a human and emotional story of the historical plight of Jews in Lithuania. Just as we are getting tired of stock footage of Russian conquests, we are treated to a tour of KGB headquarters, narrated by former prisoners. Just as we are getting a little weary of recitations of obscure Polish dynastic traditions, we are treated to an extended montage of un-narrated images of high culture, fashion and nightlife. If you are intent on owning the full spectrum of travel films, you're going to want to consider this unusual program; for others, this is strictly optional. A companion 6-minute video, Vilnius: Impressions, is also available for $10. Aud: H, C, P. (R. Ray)