The New Babylon
The New Babylon

Movie spotlight

The New Babylon

1929
Movie
92 min
Russian

In the short-lived Commune of Paris, a conscripted soldier falls in love with a Communard saleswoman. As the army cracks down on the revolutionaries, the soldier is forced to fight against the Commune, and the pair's love is put to the test.

Insights

IMDb7.3/10
Director: Grigori Kozintsev, Leonid TraubergGenres: Drama, Silent Film, Historical

Plot Summary

Set during the Paris Commune of 1871, the film contrasts the opulent lives of the bourgeoisie with the struggles of the working class. It follows the story of a young, naive department store saleswoman who gets caught up in the revolutionary fervor, leading to tragic consequences as class tensions escalate and the Commune is brutally suppressed.

Critical Reception

A landmark of Soviet cinema, 'The New Babylon' is celebrated for its innovative visual style and potent political commentary. While its agitprop elements are evident, its artistic achievements and historical significance are widely recognized. Critics praised its powerful imagery and its portrayal of class struggle.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its bold, avant-garde visual style and dynamic editing.

  • Recognized for its powerful depiction of class conflict and social unrest.

  • Commended as an important historical document and a significant work of early Soviet cinema.

Google audience: Information regarding Google user reviews for this silent film is not readily available.

Fun Fact

The film's ambitious set design included a massive, detailed recreation of a Parisian department store, which was a marvel of its time and contributed significantly to its visual impact.

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