Full of the kind of collective passion and struggle and yearning for freedom that makes viewers well up with pride at their shared humanity.
The Singing Revolution (2007)
Tomatometer
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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... 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 tough to imagine the former superpower giving in to simple songs, this documentary chronicles the Estonian people's drive for freedom and their peaceful way of attaining it. [More]
Director: James Tusty, Maureen Castle Tusty
Director: James Tusty, Maureen Castle Tusty
Screenwriter: James Tusty, Maureen Castle Tusty, Mike Majoros
Producer: James Tusty, Maureen Castle Tusty, Bestor Cram, Artur Talvik, Piret Tibbo-Hudgins
Composer: John Kusiak
Studio: Abramorama
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Release:
Feb 3, 2009
Reviews for The Singing Revolution
Though slightly overstated, the part played by singing was no doubt significant. Its implied role in keeping the Estonian revolution nonviolent is especially stirring.
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.
This wonderful documentary tracing little Estonia's independence from both the Nazis and the Communists brings tears of joy to the eyes.
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.
This solid, straightforward film highlights an important part of modern world history, but then overstays its welcome.
The thrill of this documentary is in the remarkable story of the Little Country That Could.
a film that joyfully celebrates the power of the human spirit in all its glory.
Patience may not the most exciting movie subject, but The Singing Revolution is, in its deceptively mild way, inspiring.
Provides an uplifting depiction of vitally important political ends achieved via nonviolent means.
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.'
The Singing Revolution is the sort of film that should be shown to North American school children or anyone else who takes his freedom for granted.
If The Singing Revolution were a fictional film it would be dismissed as a pie-in-the-sky fantasy. But it’s all true.
Folk songs can be plenty inspirational, but like this movie, they just aren't all that exciting.
The Singing Revolution might ignite history buffs, but for musicphiles, it's unfortunately a one-note symphony.
'Nonstop Estonian folk music' might not be a great format for a radio station, but it sure works for The Singing Revolution.
Directors 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.
The first feature doc by James Tusty and Maureen Castle Tusty is a formulaic affair (plenty of talking heads and archival footage), but its story is an uplifting one befitting the holiday spirit.
| Tomatometer Percentage | Movie |
|---|---|
| 78% 78% | The Hangover |
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| 24% 24% | G-Force |
| 44% 44% | Night at the Museum: B… |
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| 90% 90% | District 9 |
| 86% 86% | 500 Days of Summer |
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| 06% 06% | All About Steve |
| 78% 78% | It Might Get Loud |
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