Stride, Soviet!

Part of the Series: Landmarks of Early Soviet Film

STRIDE, SOVIET! is a film intended to publicize, in the run-up to local elections, the work and accomplishments of the Moscow municipal council or "soviet." Dziga Vertov attempts a different kind of lecture film, one that disposes of staid commentary in favor of sharp visual conflicts that mimic the impact of a fiery orator. Developing the plan in 1925, Vertov envisioned the film proceeding as a montage of contrasts. For him, advertisement was best received in an agitated state and the best possible promotion of Moscow was a view of a city with its contradictions intact. Vertov's determination was a boon for film history but not necessarily for the Moscow Soviet.