In the Soviet Union, cinema was a tool of the state. Or at least it was meant to be. Stalin took to heart Lenin's assertion that 'of all the arts, cinema is the most important for us', and presided over the most intensive era of film censorship to that point in history. He also appeared on screen - not personally, but as a character in contemporary feature films, making him the first political leader to do so. Who exactly was this cinematic Stalin? And was he a success for a regime set on shaping audiences through film? This talk explores these questions and the audacious oddity that was Joseph Stalin, film star.

Announcing our next research seminar, “Joseph Stalin, Film Star: Soviet Cinema and the Leader Cult) by Dr. Claire Knight (University of Bristol)! This Friday, May 3, 2-3:30PM, in the Floor 5 Lecture Theatre (5.65), Richmond Building Drinks reception to follow.