Explore TV Series

Museums of the World: Hermitage Part II

Formerly the palace of Czars, the Hermitage in St. Petersburg is now one of the world's largest museums, drawing three and a half million visitors per year. This superbly mastered DVD series is a guided tour of the works in the galleries as well as a compelling lesson in art history. The 540 minute series examines some of the sculptures, paintings, tapestries, and glassware pieces found within the four pavillions, as well as the impressive European-style architecture of the museum itself. Researched and authenticated by the Hermitage Museum and lavishly photographed, the series covers such styles as Classical, Neo-Classical, Baroque, Gothic, Impressionism, Post-Impressionism, and Cubism. As well, it showcases works by such masters as Rodin, Goya, Da Vinci, Van Gogh, Matisse and Picasso. Be captivated by the history and culture of this breath taking collection of visual art masterpieces.

The four—part documentary about the first president of Russia is an attempt to understand the controversial personality of Boris Yeltsin without bias. Relatives and friends, allies and opponents tell about his actions in critical situations, about how decisions were made that determined the fate of the country. In addition to the official chronicle, the film uses unique footage of departmental and amateur filming, as well as testimonies from people who have always avoided publicity.

Originally aired on Russian television, this five-part semi-documentary series tells the story of a Russian naval commander in charge of an Arctic-based ship. The film provokes a meditation on solitude and isolation, while revealing the daily duties associated with the ship. Voice-over narration by the commander, other sailors, and even a third-person voice provide the “confession” of the title.

The stories of great love captured in letters and documents, poems and paintings are also cultural events. In the center of attention are outstanding personalities who have left a mark on culture and have shown with their own lives to what heights a person can rise in his feelings.

The darkest and most terrible mystery of Central Ural history. For almost fifty years, people have been vainly struggling with its clue. On the night of February 1 to February 2, 1959, in the far north of the Middle Urals on the Mansi Mountain of the Dead, an unknown and monstrous force completely destroyed a tourist group of students of the Ural Polytechnic Institute.