1989: From the diary of Ivana A.

Lesson objectives

• To get acquainted with the events related to the Velvet Revolution
• To look at the events of 1989 in Czechoslovakia through the eyes of a high school girl
• To learn about the events of the last year of communist Czechoslovakia

The subject of the film is the authentic diary of 18-year old Ivana A., who uses the personable perspective of a high school student to reflect on a year of the existence of Communist Czechoslovakia. She contrasts her Graduation ball with the events of the Week of Palach, annoying Mayday celebrations and memories of Soviet reality for her approaching graduation with her first trip to the “West”, the joyous experiences of her last school holidays with her entry to an unappealing employment of grey future life outlook.

This film by Karel Strachota is a synthesis of actual diary entries, sequences from news and publicity programs, samples from the press of the day, private documents, letters, and photographs. This original film account of a time 25 years ago, enhances with animation and distinctive music will find an audience primarily with younger generations.