Screening – Power of the Powerless

Czechoslovakia’s 1989 Velvet Revolution, instigated by a student-led movement which drew half a million people to the streets of Prague, is documented in this inspiring film narrated by Academy Award winner Jeremy Irons.

The courageous achievement of a bloodless transfer of power away from Communist rule by outlawed playwright Václav Havel and his fellow dissidents was a remarkable demonstration of people power. Amid the momentous events of 1989 however, the Velvet Revolution often been overlooked, and many people today are unaware of what took place.

Power of the Powerless features rare interviews with key figures of the Velvet Revolution, including Václav Havel and reminds us of the peaceful alternatives to armed conflict. After a successful tour of 20 international film festivals, the film is being used by human rights organisations to encourage dissidents struggling in non-democratic countries including Burma.

Directed by Cory Taylor
78 mins
2009

This film will be screened in collaboration with Frontline’s International Partners in Prague, People In Need and the One World Film Festival.