Film Lens
In February 1986, four young citizens of the German Democratic Republic (GDR) begin their mandatory military service, which leads them to the GDR border system. Their superiors describe this border as an anti-imperialist protective wall, but the reality is that it functions as a barrier that creates death strips and prison bars for the local population. The film captures their experiences during this critical period of the Cold War, revealing the stark contrasts between their training and the implications of their roles as border guards.
Seventeen years later, these former soldiers reunite at their old post to reflect on their time in service. This reunion serves as a platform for them to discuss the complexities and contradictions of life on the GDR border. The film is significant as it is the first feature in reunified Germany to examine the inner workings of the GDR border troops, providing insight into a previously unexplored aspect of East German history.
Why Watch
- •Meet four GDR soldiers reflecting on their past.
- •See the realities of life on the GDR border.
- •Find out about the GDR's border system.
Did You Know
•The film features four young citizens from the GDR.
•It was released in 2004, 17 years after the soldiers' service.
•The film has a runtime of 79 minutes.
•The director of the film is Holger Jancke.
Perfect For
Cold War historyGDR military serviceEast German culture