Turksib

The title of this Russian documentary refers to the railroad linking Turkestan and Siberia. Produced on a grand scale, the film recounts the construction of this important transportation link, using actual newsreel footage and tons of stock shots from previous Soviet propaganda films. The "plot" is dictated by the progress of the construction, and as such has its dull patches from time to time. Of the many memorable scenes, several are standouts, including a harrowing sandstorm, obviously filmed at great personal risk to the camera crew. Filmed silent, TURKSIB was released in the U.S. with live musical accompaniment.