Video

Films of Eldar Ryazanov, Moral Voice of the USSR

Eldar Ryazanov is remembered as one of the most influential and beloved directors in the post-Stalin Soviet era. Phrases from his movies, which is often co-wrote are still quoted by Russians as much as pieces of folk wisdom as pop culture references. He is best known for light comedies that also delivered social reflection, moral […]

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Aleksei Balabanov and His Films: Cult Classics of Post-Soviet Russia

15 Soviet Cartoons to Put You in the Holiday Spirit

Music

Polish Sung Poetry: Word, Song, Beauty, and Resistance

Sung poetry in Poland has a long cultural and political history. These songs combine literary depth with melody, weaving together stories of history, philosophy, and social life. They have drawn on traditions from medieval bardic music to cabaret and folk music to modern jazz. The genre has also been part of resistance movements during the […]

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The Latvian Daina: How Four-Line Folk Songs Helped Birth A Nation

Shanson: Music From Gulag to Mainstream