Film Lens
This documentary examines the Cold War through the lens of economic power and military spending. It discusses how the Reagan administration prioritized expensive military projects, such as the B2 stealth bomber, which cost 2 billion dollars per plane, over more cost-effective options like the Trident nuclear missile. The film illustrates the vast sums spent on military endeavors, likening it to counting stars, and emphasizes the impact of consumer goods on Soviet perceptions of the West.
The narrative also shows personal stories, such as Boris Yeltsin's transformation after visiting a Houston supermarket, where he was astonished by the abundance of food and consumer choices. This experience led him to abandon his communist beliefs, demonstrating how exposure to Western lifestyles influenced the political landscape. The film ultimately suggests that the Cold War's end was driven by the desire for better living standards, even down to choices in breakfast cereal.
Why Watch
- •See how military spending shaped the Cold War.
- •Meet Boris Yeltsin before he changed his beliefs.
- •Find out what consumer goods influenced Soviet citizens.
Did You Know
•The B2 stealth bomber cost 2 billion dollars per plane.
•The Trident nuclear missile could destroy up to six cities for 70 million dollars.
•Boris Yeltsin was amazed by the variety of spaghetti sauce in a Houston supermarket.
•Eisenhower warned about the dire costs of the Cold War during his presidency.
Perfect For
Cold War historyMilitary strategyEconomic power dynamics