Film Lens
The film 'Piter' presents life in St. Petersburg through the stories of seven residents, each representing different facets of post-Soviet Russia. Among them is 87-year-old Jelena Jakovlevna, who maintains her pre-revolutionary furniture and a portrait of Stalin, reflecting a connection to the past that contrasts with younger generations. The film captures the tension between historical reverence and modern indifference, as seen in the character of a young publicity agent who shows little concern for figures like Lenin and Stalin.
The documentary also features a former party official who has transitioned to capitalism and an ex-journalist grappling with the changes following the Brezhnev era. Set against the backdrop of St. Petersburg, the film uses the evocative music of Frank Gorter to enhance the emotional landscape of its subjects, providing a rich context for understanding the complexities of life in contemporary Russia.
Why Watch
- •Meet 87-year-old Jelena Jakovlevna and her historical artifacts.
- •See the contrast between old and new perspectives in Russia.
- •Find out how ex-journalists cope after the Brezhnev era.
Did You Know
•Jelena Jakovlevna is 87 years old and preserves pre-revolutionary furniture.
•The film features a young publicity agent indifferent to Lenin and Stalin.
•One character is a former party official who became a capitalist.
Perfect For
Post-Soviet historySt. Petersburg culturePersonal stories of change