German Information Center Announces Free DVD Release for Educators
Update, Dec. 14, 2009: This DVD is no longer available.
The fall of the Berlin Wall 20 years ago marked the end of the Cold War, the beginning of a fully united Europe and proof that peaceful change is possible, even in the moments when it seems most unlikely. But what did it mean for people's lives and careers? The film "Freedom Without Walls" portrays creative young people living and working in Berlin today as they explain how the fall of the wall has shaped their lives and the city they live in.
After a historical overview that explains the history of the wall and Germany's reunification, the film introduces Jakob Spahn, a young cellist who has performed with the Berlin Philharmonic, Kathi Käppel, a freelance animator and designer and the actors Constanze Behrends and Oliver Tautorat. Although they have diverse biographies with roots in the East and the West, these young people who are driving Berlin's creative economy all share the feeling that their lives and careers have been made possible by the fall of the wall and the reunification of Berlin and Germany.
Educators and community organizations may request a free copy of the full 18-minute film for use in the classroom or at events intended to commemorate the fall of the Berlin Wall and the reunification of Germany.
This film was produced by the German Information Center and directed by documentary filmmaker Bob Frye. It contains still photographs and exclusive footage videotaped on the evening of November 9, 1989 as well as an animation film produced exclusively for this film and an excerpt of the Berlin Philharmonic performing the music of Bruckner.
