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10/18/08
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The Singing Revolution (2007)
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Reviews Counted:35
Fresh:30
Rotten:5
Average Rating:7/10
Theatrical Release:2007-12
Synopsis: The year 1991 marked a time of change for the Republic of Estonia. This small European nation decided to end the Soviet Union's power over them in a completely radical way: by singing. Though it's... [More]
Director: James Tusty, Maureen Castle Tusty
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Reviews for The Singing Revolution
This fine and surprising documentary asks an even more challenging question: Can music promote nonviolence, prevent bloodshed and successfully overthrow an oppressive regime? Again -- astonishingly -- the answer is 'yes.'
06/20/08
A wonderful exploration of that still little-understood period, from the mid-1980s through 1991, when the empire of Soviet communism rapidly collapsed.
12/13/07
Top CriticOne of the most inspirational and powerful documentaries I've ever seen.
03/28/09
Though it proposes to discuss how music made all the difference in Estonia's fight for independence, The Singing Revolution is actually more focused on the behind the scenes wheeling and dealing that helped determine the end of Russian influence.
12/13/07
The Singing Revolution becomes a tense political thriller that culminates in one of the most significant events of past century: The collapse of the Soviet Union.
04/03/08
Booster-ish, with only former participants in the struggle and activists interviewed. There's a you-must-feel-good thrust (and an incessant score). Warbles a familiar tune to Estonians, presumably, and doesn't offer enough rich notes for an outsider.
07/01/08
Although filmmakers James and Maureen Castle Tusty haven't figured out how to make historic tidbits come alive, they do know how to make them sing.
07/11/08
'Nonstop Estonian folk music' might not be a great format for a radio station, but it sure works for The Singing Revolution.
07/11/08
Effectively chronicles in a thumbnail sketch the blustery recent political 20th-century history of Estonia.
07/07/08
It's a powerful story of a nation that, almost literally, sang its way to freedom.
04/17/08
Top CriticDirectors James and Maureen Tusty acknowledge that few outsiders care much about this tiny Baltic nation. And then, through a mix of moving interviews and affecting footage, they show us why we should.
12/14/07
This solid, straightforward film highlights an important part of modern world history, but then overstays its welcome.
12/14/07
Provides an uplifting depiction of vitally important political ends achieved via nonviolent means.
12/19/07
This wonderful documentary tracing little Estonia's independence from both the Nazis and the Communists brings tears of joy to the eyes.
10/25/07
An intriguing, highly recommended film.
04/24/08
Fortunately, the interview subjects (who include festival performers and current and former Estonian leaders) are very intelligent and well-spoken. Their stories are what really holds out interest here.
08/08/08
As far as the plot goes, widespread lack of familiarity with Estonia's recent history actually works in the film's favor: Suspense born of ignorance lends the unfolding drama the urgency of a political thriller.
05/22/08
An emotionally and dramatically satisfying narrative.
12/20/07
Top CriticThough slightly overstated, the part played by singing was no doubt significant. Its implied role in keeping the Estonian revolution nonviolent is especially stirring.
04/03/08
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