Plot synopsis

In 1970, the Soviet Union lives under the sign of firmly established but increasingly rigid political stability. Power is solidly concentrated in the hands of Leonid Brezhnev, whose priority is to maintain order, social cohesion, and the leading role of the Communist Party. The economic reforms launched in the mid-1960s have largely slowed down, and the bureaucracy has regained its full influence.

The year is dominated by a major ideological event: the celebration of the centenary of the birth of Vladimir Lenin, born on April 18, 1870. This anniversary gives rise to an unprecedented nationwide mobilization. Solemn meetings, official speeches, exhibitions, films, publications, and ceremonies follow one another throughout the year. Lenin is presented as the unquestionable founder of the Soviet state and as a unifying moral figure.

Through this commemoration, the regime seeks to strengthen its legitimacy by claiming fidelity to “authentic Leninism,” distinct from the excesses of Stalinism. The revolutionary past is exalted in order to compensate for the loss of ideological dynamism in the present. In schools, factories, and cultural institutions, participation in the celebrations is encouraged, and often compulsory.

On the cultural level, 1970 is marked by creativity under strict supervision. Cinema, literature, and theater address historical or moral themes compatible with the official line. At the same time, a dissident culture continues to exist discreetly through samizdat, under the close surveillance of the KGB.

In foreign policy, the USSR continues the path of détente with the West, preparing major arms limitation agreements. Internally, however, the contrast is striking: behind the pomp of the Lenin centenary and official rhetoric, Soviet society feels a growing weariness, foreshadowing the long period of stagnation to come.

Selected in the following festivals or events :

- Historical Chronicles with Nikolay Svanidze, (kinoglaz.fr), 2026

- Lenin in Russian and Soviet cinema, (kinoglaz.fr), 2025

Photos, videos, texts

Vladimir LENINE (Владимир Ильич ЛЕНИН) 1870-1924