Orphans of the East: Postwar Eastern European Cinema and the Revolutionary Subject

Explore the fascinating intersection of cinema, politics, and identity in Constantin Parvulescu's "Orphans of the East: Postwar Eastern European Cinema and the Revolutionary Subject." This thought-provoking book delves into the unique portrayal of orphans in films produced in Hungary, the German Democratic Republic, Czechoslovakia, Romania, and Poland following World War II. Unlike the sentimentalized orphans of Western cinema, these Eastern European orphans embody the complex anxieties and challenges of individuals navigating the aftermath of war and the uncertainties of life under Soviet influence. Parvulescu expertly analyzes how these films use the figure of the orphan to explore themes of national identity, ideological indoctrination, and the struggle for individual agency within a rapidly changing political landscape. The orphan becomes a powerful cinematic trope, questioning socialist ideals of re-education and serving as a silent critique of the system's flaws, or as a symbol of resistance against the state's pervasive control. "Orphans of the East" offers a fresh perspective on postwar Eastern European cinema, highlighting its critical engagement with the promises and pitfalls of Soviet-style communism. Parvulescu's insightful analysis reveals how these films provide a nuanced understanding of the human condition in a society grappling with trauma, loss, and the imposition of a new ideological order. The book examines how filmmakers subtly challenged or reinforced the dominant narratives, providing a crucial lens through which to understand the complexities of the era. This illustrated edition offers readers a deeper understanding of the films discussed, enhancing the reading experience with compelling visual examples. Perfect for film scholars, students of Eastern European history, and anyone interested in the relationship between cinema and society, "Orphans of the East" is a valuable contribution to the field of film studies and a compelling exploration of a pivotal period in European history. Discover the stories of resilience, resistance, and the enduring human spirit as reflected in the haunting images of Eastern European cinema's orphans. Constantin Parvulescu is Associate Professor of Film Studies at Indiana University, Bloomington, making him well equipped to give insights on this niche topic. Get your copy today and embark on a cinematic journey through the heart of postwar Eastern Europe!