Summary: Documentary compilation about Berlin through 1945, the battle for the City and the reconstruction of it, using mostly newsreel footage from many archives.
Description: The film begins with the air raids on Berlin, scenes of the destruction and of Berliners 'making-do'. There are shots of the ARP, of Hitler in March and April, and of young recruits joining up. There is film of the Russian, British and American armies advancing and Berliners preparing defences. The Germans are seen surrendering, from Keitel down to the infantry in the streets. The programme provides an impression of Berlin life in the hot summer of 1945, with many Germans enjoying themselves and relaxing at last in scenes of surprising prosperity and gaiety, whilst the city itself is in ruins. There are shots of Russians, Americans and British as tourists in the devastated city, especially the ruins of the Reichs Chancellory. Amidst street bartering the slow process of reconstruction begins and despite official prohibitions the allied troops seem to get on well with the German girls. The programme ends with a montage of Berlin in 1945 and now.
Alternative Title:
Colour:B&W
Digitised:
Object_Number:MGH 715
Sound:Sound
Access Conditions:NON-IWM
Featured Period:
Production Date:1973
Production Country: Germany (Federal Republic)
Production Details: Chronos Films (Production company)
Baake, Franz (Production individual)
Morr, Jost von (Production individual)
Bandmann, John Lionel (Production individual)
Knapp, Iris (Production individual)
Muhlen, Bengt von zur (Production individual)
Reichhardt, Hans J (Dr) (Production individual)
Tengg Kobligk, Irmgard von (Production individual)
Mundin, Evelyn (Production individual)
Gelmini, Wolfgang de (Production individual)
White, Mark (Production cast)
Personalities, Units and Organisations:
Keywords: Germany & Berlin, Berlin (geography)
Physical Characteristics: Colour format: B&W
Sound format: Sound
Soundtrack language: English
Title language: English
Subtitle language: None
Technical Details: Format: 16mm
Number of items/reels/tapes: 2
Footage: 2695 ft; Running time: 72 mins
