Songs from the North is an essay film which looks differently at the enigma of North Korea, a country typically seen only through the distorted lens of jingoistic propaganda and derisive satire. Interweaving footage from three visits to North Korea, together with songs, spectacle, popular cinema and archival footage, Songs from the North tries to understand, on their own terms, the phychology and popular imaginary of the North Korean people and the political ideology of absolute love which continues to drive the nation towards its uncertain future. To look closely and objectively at North Korea, a country that challenges our most fundamental assumptions about the human condition, is ultimately to question the meaning of freedom, love and patriotism.
This film is part of the annual ScreenPeace Film Festival, presented by the Kroc Institute for International Peace Studies. The festival features six critically acclaimed films that highlight a range of compelling issues related to peace and justice.
All films are free, but ticketed. To reserve tickets, please call the box office at 574.631.2800 or visit performingarts.nd.edu.