Films for the Classroom

communications between the commander in chief and Cadogan led to the mistake, but the viewer cannot escape the feeling that a foolish but brave cavalry charge was precisely what Cadogan and his officers wanted. The politics ofwar making come in for criticism, as does the whole military ethic which induces men to find adventure and fulfillment on the battlefield. But the condemnation ofthe military life is done well, with some subtly, and the film takes care to illustrate what real battle is like. The acting is generally superior, with a fine performance by Vanessa Redgrave and some bravura character roles throughout. A point to consider, however, for the college teacher is the length ofthe film—it runs for nearly two hours. Obviously not suited for a single class meeting, the film can still be used outside ofclass hours, perhaps as part ofa series shown in the evening. Martin A. Jackson Films for the Classroom Czechoslovakia: A Year of Trial (USSR Government Film, 1968) 70 minutes b&w This film concerns itselfwith the events of 1968 in Czechoslovakia, but presents more than just the Soviet interpretation ofthe happenings ofthe "Prague Spring" and the Sovietjustifications for the limited Warsaw Pact invasion, which brought about its subsequent demise. Using carefully edited newsreel film (Communist and non-Communist) a broad attack is loosed against what is portrayed as the American Nazi revival in the German Federal Republic which would have culminated in another "Munich sell-out" had not Czechoslovakia's "socialist allies" come to her aid in time. Although I first used this film in one ofmy graduate courses, I later also found it to be of interest for more general audiences concerned with Slavic area studies and/or current affairs. It is a fine example ofcontemporary Soviet anti-capitalist cinematic propaganda. (Course, Soviet Russia) Dennis Reinhartz, Madison College, Harrisonburg, VA. In Defense of Rome (CBS news, 1964) 60 min. b&w The first film used in this quarter's presentation was Age ofVictory. It was a travelogue ofMarathon, Thermopalae, and Solomis. I recommend it for visual impact on the topography ofGreece but not for general use — language is indistinct. But In Defense ofRome is excellent in every aspect. It is dialog thus leading into general class discussion. It is appetizing in that it encourages students to seek sources ofcertain quotations used. Its main force however, is the visual impact of full-scale models ofthe buildings ofRome' It is beautifully done' It also serves the purpose ofa lecture on "why Rome fell" as well as "what survives from Rome." I recommend this highly for use in Western Civilization courses for college freshmen. (Course, Western Civ.) Doris B. Tanner, University of Term. Michaelangelo: The Last Giant (NBC news, 1 965) 64-min. color Michaelangelo was in many ways the supreme embodiment of the Renaissance. This excellent documentary narrated by José Ferrer with Peter Ustinov as the voice of Michaelangelo makes extensive use ofprimary source material to show the development ofthe last towering genius ofthe Renaissance. Michaelangelo's tale becomes that ofthe Renaissance artist who must succumb to the will ofhis patrons to survive. The film proves very useful in depicting varied aspects of Renaissance art and revealing how Michaelangelo's work was the crowning achievement of its time. Among the scenes that are most impressive are those ofthe ceiling ofthe Sistine Chapel, The Last Judgment, The Statue of David, and finally the Dome for St. Peter's. Student reaction was very favorable and I would highly recommend it for any course that touches on the Renaissance. (Course, The Development of European Ideas and Institutions) Theodore Lauer, Brooklyn College. The Jackson Years: Toward Civil War. (Learning Corp. ofAmerica) 28 min. color Both these films on the Jacksonian Era are technically superior. The first is uneven but definitely useful; the second is excellent throughout. The New Americans focuses on the Jacksonian myth and symbol. An ambitious effort at weaving historical event with contemporary social and political rhetoric, at depicting the national character, it sometimes slides into caricature. All flaws should be forgiven, however, for its marvelous renditions from the American Theater, with the "Hunters of Kentucky" topping the bill. The second film wisely and sensitively concentrates on the slavery issue. The main...