David Susskind Archive: Interview With Nikita Khrushchev

In the historically significant film "David Susskind Archive: Interview With Nikita Khrushchev", David Susskind, a renowned American television producer and talk-show host, seizes an unparalleled opportunity to interview Nikita Khrushchev, former Premier of the Soviet Union. This interview, a pivotal point in the annals of broadcast journalism, stands as a profound exchange between the superpowers during the height of the Cold War.

David Susskind, known for his charismatic style and probing approach, undertakes an interview which presents the human side of a controversial and compelling world leader. Susskind’s trademark interview style comes to the fore, as he subtly pits democratic ideals against communist conventions. Khrushchev, on the other hand, emerges as a tempestuous, robust, and intriguing character rather than a tyrannical caricature.

The movie expertly portrays the tension of the times, the socio-political divide marking the planet, and the individual idiosyncrasies of both the interviewer and the interviewee. Susskind himself makes for a compelling on-screen presence, boldly probing into the life, ideologies, and politics of Khrushchev, before veering into the intricate maze of USSR domestic and foreign policy decisions.

The movie is not just an interview; it is a reflection of global politics during a turbulent era - the Cold War. Khrushchev, known for his critical role during the Cuban missile crisis, and his ideological clashes with the United States and its allies, presents himself with bristling honesty. His dialogue with Susskind ebbs and flows fittingly, their conversation embodying the tension between the East and West that marked much of the 20th century. Yet, there are also instances of shared humor, rare moments of agreement, and even thoughtful reflections, painting a complex portrayal of the Soviet leader.

Director Leslie H. Martinson and the production team ingeniously frame the interview within the context of the world during those times. The film captures the feel and ambience of this era through a simple set exuding a no-frills, intimate, and raw appeal. It resonates with the gravity of the time and place where this historic exchange is conducted.

The brilliance of the cinematography lies in the fine balance maintained throughout: attention to the evolving dialogue without any dramatic distraction, and the remarkably potent close-ups that capture the spectrum of emotions on both Susskind's and Khrushchev's faces. The filmmakers skillfully oscillate between two worlds – a television studio and the unravelling thoughts of two significant figures of the 20th century.

Though titled as "David Susskind Archive: Interview With Nikita Khrushchev", the movie serves to be much more. Often referred to as a "dialogue with history", the film indeed lives up to this reputation by facilitating an insight into the sentiments, strategies, and stakes during the Cold War era. It stands as a timeless record of an extraordinary exchange that not only reflects the past but also imparts invaluable lessons for future diplomatic and political engagements.

Beyond the political, the movie also explores the personal. The audience gets a glimpse into Khrushchev's background, the hardships of his early life that shaped his ideologies. It offers the viewer a rare chance to go beyond the media portrayal of the erstwhile Soviet leader, creating a space for greater understanding and empathy.

In conclusion, "David Susskind Archive: Interview With Nikita Khrushchev" is essentially a fascinating, intense, and thought-provoking encounter. It champions the potency of dialogue as a tool of diplomacy, contributing significantly to historical, political, and journalistic discourse. An engaging propellant that drives the narrative is the electric dynamic between Susskind and Khrushchev, making it a captivating watch. Regardless of one's political leaning, this film stands as a riveting dose of history, personality, and power - an extraordinary glimpse into a momentous period of our shared past.