Educational Media Reviews Online

“Between 1945 and the early 50's the lives of thousands of ordinary citizens were destroyed because they were accused of un-American activities. Teachers, writers—anyone who expressed a liberal or left-wing opinion could be identified as a Communist…”—Abstract from cassette case.

In this video both the anti-Communists and the victims of the notorious McCarthy witch-hunts talk candidly about the era of anti-Communist hysteria and blacklists. Among them are men and women who joined the Communist Party out of idealism and in reaction to injustices in American society.

In a unique form of documentary style, this video production tells most of its story using contemporary motion picture sequences and imagery to convey the events surrounding the Cold War period when hysteria gripped America over the threat of a Communist revolution. The sequences follow a succession from the end of World War II through the 1950s, with live commentary by former members of the American Communist Party who describe their experiences firsthand. These anecdotes, thoughts, and perceptions provide selected samples of life during the McCarthy era. Americans who viewed the events from the opposite side of the Communists make additional comments. In this way, the production tries to be objective and unbiased.

Rather than provide a chronological documentary on the historic events, this production focuses on the way that these events affected individuals, which gives the viewer a more personal view of what Americans experienced. The discussion shows how people were feeling about the threat, real or imagined, posed by communism.

Interviews of American Communists are revealing in that there are a variety of experiences that are not as expected. Also, the viewer sees that the situation was not a simple matter, but one of great complexity. The commentators talk about how they believed in the party and its place in society. Some are idyllic and others cynical. This video offers some surprises, as commentators are not afraid to be honest about their activities and their perceptions of what they were trying to accomplish.

The video also provides some historical context by showing the roots of the American Communist Party in the depression, as well as the reasons that McCarthyism began. Context for the interviews and anecdotes is provided by the video, which gives the basic development of events in the 1950s.

The video progresses through the entire era building to the moments when propaganda and frenzy on both sides came to its peak. The arrests and trials for un-American activities created a strong reaction either for or against the communists. The reasons for the arrests are explained, and some of those arrested give their oral testimony on their experiences. These people express more than their ideals and beliefs; they also show the very human side of the effects of the McCarthy witch-hunts. Many communist party members served jail terms, paid fines, suffered destruction of family lives and careers, and felt the fear and helplessness of political and societal repression. The ultimate price of this course of action comes with the executions of Julius and Ethel Rosenberg in 1953. The video describes the event and provides contemporary film footage that tells of the gruesome details of the execution. This brings home the point of how extreme the period was.

In terms of technical aspects, the video and audio quality are good. The shooting script and direction follow a good pace and concepts are well organized. As with any documentary, one should also consult with good histories of the period. This production gives a different view of its topic in that it explains emotions, perceptions, and more intangible aspects, rather than strictly looking at facts, details, and concrete concepts.

This video is appropriate for viewers from high school through adult learners. It is a worthwhile addition to any collection of materials on American history, political science, the Cold War, and society.

Suitable for high school, college, and adult learners. Specialties include: American history, political science, international relations, and law. Recommended.