‘Meeting Gorbachev’ opens at Cinema Art Theater May 24

Starting Friday, May 24, the Rehoboth Beach Film Society’s Cinema Art Theater will present the legendary filmmaker Werner Herzog’s new documentary (co-directed with André Singer) “Meeting Gorbachev,” about the architect of the end of the Cold War, Mikhail Gorbachev. Filled with unforgettable archival materials and based on three long interviews, the film provides incredible access to arguably the world's greatest living politician.

Now 87 and battling illness, the visionary Gorbachev, former general secretary of the U.S.S.R, has mellowed and slowed down. Still, gently but resolutely, he is pushing toward his goals. Herzog, as on-screen interviewer, does not disguise his affection, celebrating Gorbachev's three remarkable accomplishments: negotiations with the U.S. to reduce nuclear weapons; cessation of Soviet control of Eastern Europe and the reunification of Germany; and the dissolution of the Soviet Union and Eastern Bloc. All of this in six years! One German diplomat sums up Gorbachev's approach: "The process went so quickly that... opponents were overcome by the reality of the situation."

Screening times are 3 p.m., Friday, May 24; 6 p.m., Saturday, May 25; 4 p.m., Sunday, May 26; 3 p.m., Tuesday, May 28; 6 p.m., Wednesday, May 29; and 3 p.m., Thursday, May 30. Admission is $8 for members and $11 for future members. Customers are encouraged to purchase tickets online. If seats are available, tickets can be purchased at the theater starting 30 minutes prior to each screening.

For more information on this series, other events, or to become a member, visit www.rehobothfilm.com or call 302-645-9095.