The Sixth Part of the World Review: Vertov's Bold Soviet Epic

Short answer: Yes, but with a cautionary note. 'The Sixth Part of the World' is a fascinating, if somewhat uneven, exploration of the Soviet Union through the eyes of its director, Dziga Vertov. This film is a must-watch for anyone interested in the early days of documentary filmmaking or the political ambitions of the USSR. However, it's not for everyone, and its heavy-handed ideology might turn off modern audiences.

Is this film worth watching?

Yes, but with a critical eye. Vertov's film is a landmark in the history of cinema, pushing the boundaries of what a documentary could be. It's a raw, unfiltered look at the Soviet Union, capturing both its grandeur and its contradictions. However, its political message can be heavy-handed, and its structure can feel disjointed at times. Watch it for its historical significance and artistic ambition, but be prepared for a challenging viewing experience.

This film works because...

Vertov's innovative use of montage and impressionistic editing creates a dynamic visual experience that feels both immediate and timeless. His approach to filming ordinary people and everyday life is raw and unfiltered, giving the film a documentary-like authenticity. The film's ambitious scope, attempting to capture the full breadth of the Soviet Union, is a bold and fascinating endeavor.

Cinematic perspective: Exploring the visual vocabulary of The Sixth Part of the World (1926) through its definitive frames.

This film fails because...

The film's heavy-handed political message can be off-putting for modern audiences. While Vertov's intention was to celebrate the unity and diversity of the Soviet Union, the film's propagandistic tone can feel outdated and preachy. Additionally, the film's structure can be confusing and disjointed, with scenes jumping between vastly different locations and subjects without clear transitions.

You should watch it if...

You are interested in early documentary filmmaking, the history of the Soviet Union, or the intersection of art and politics. This film is a pioneering work that deserves to be seen, even if it doesn't always succeed. It's a fascinating document of a time and place, and its flaws are part of its charm.

Key Takeaways

• Best for: Film historians, those interested in early documentary filmmaking, and those fascinated by the political and cultural landscape of the Soviet Union.
• Not for: Modern audiences looking for a straightforward, easily digestible documentary. Those who find heavy-handed propaganda off-putting might also struggle with this film.
• Standout element: Vertov's innovative use of montage and impressionistic editing, which creates a dynamic and visually striking film.
• Biggest flaw: The film's heavy-handed political message and its sometimes disjointed structure can be off-putting for modern audiences.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Raw and unfiltered look at everyday life in the Soviet Union.
• Innovative use of montage and impressionistic editing.
• Ambitious scope, attempting to capture the full breadth of the Soviet Union.

Cons

• Heavy-handed political message can be off-putting for modern audiences.
• Structure can be confusing and disjointed.
• At times, the film can feel more like a political propaganda than a work of art.

Verdict

It works. But it’s flawed. 'The Sixth Part of the World' is a fascinating and ambitious film that pushes the boundaries of what a documentary could be. Vertov's innovative use of montage and impressionistic editing creates a visually striking and dynamic experience. However, its heavy-handed political message and sometimes disjointed structure can be off-putting for modern audiences. This film is a must-watch for anyone interested in the history of documentary filmmaking or the political ambitions of the USSR, but it's not for everyone.

Cinematic perspective: Exploring the visual vocabulary of The Sixth Part of the World (1926) through its definitive frames.

Conclusion

In the end, 'The Sixth Part of the World' is a complex and challenging film that rewards close viewing and an open mind. It's a fascinating document of a time and place, and its flaws are part of its charm. If you're willing to engage with a film that doesn’t always succeed but still offers profound insights into the Soviet Union and the art of documentary filmmaking, then 'The Sixth Part of the World' is definitely worth watching.

What to Watch Next

If you enjoyed 'The Sixth Part of the World', you might also enjoy:

• The Marriage Lie - A damning critique of Soviet propaganda through the lens of a failed relationship.
• West of Chicago - A documentary that explores the complexities of race and identity in America.
• The Tenderfoot - A controversial film that questions the role of the outsider in American society.
• Out of the Clouds - A poetic and philosophical take on the human condition.

While these films offer different perspectives and aesthetics, they share a common thread of challenging the viewer to think critically about the world around them.