Hammer & Tickle Poster

Hammer & Tickle 2007

★ 7.45 votes89 min📅 2007-01-08

"The story of a political system that was laughed out of existence."

Hammer & Tickle (2007) offers a distinctive documentary perspective on life behind the Iron Curtain through the lens of humor.

Director: Ben Lewis

Cast

Wojciech Jaruzelski
Wojciech Jaruzelski
Self
Roy Medvedev
Self
Günter Schabowski
Self
Peter Sodann
Peter Sodann
Self
Lech Wałęsa
Lech Wałęsa
Self
Mikhail Gorbachev
Mikhail Gorbachev
Self (archive footage)
Václav Havel
Václav Havel
Self (archive footage)
Ronald Reagan
Ronald Reagan
Self (archive footage)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hammer & Tickle (2007) about?

This documentary examines how jokes and humor served as weapons of resistance against Soviet oppression, showcasing the cultural phenomenon of underground comedy that helped erode communist authority from within.

Who directed Hammer & Tickle?

The film was directed by Ben Lewis, who brings his distinctive documentary style to exploring this unconventional historical narrative.

Who stars in Hammer & Tickle?

The documentary features prominent historical figures including Lech Wałęsa, Mikhail Gorbachev, Wojciech Jaruzelski, Roy Medvedev, and Günter Schabowski, who share their perspectives on communist-era humor.

Is Hammer & Tickle (2007) worth watching?

Absolutely. This unique documentary offers both entertainment and historical insight, using humor to illuminate serious political themes. The 89-minute runtime provides substantial content for anyone interested in Cold War history or the power of satire.

How long is Hammer & Tickle?

The documentary runs for 89 minutes.

🎥 Trailer

Hammer & Tickle (2007): How Humor Toppled Communism — Full Movie Info

Hammer & Tickle (2007) offers a distinctive documentary perspective on life behind the Iron Curtain through the lens of humor. Directed by Ben Lewis, this compelling film explores how jokes became a form of resistance and social commentary in the Soviet Union, revealing the absurdities of communist rule through carefully curated anecdotes and historical footage.

The documentary features interviews with notable figures including Wojciech Jaruzelski, Roy Medvedev, Günter Schabowski, Peter Sodann, Lech Wałęsa, and Mikhail Gorbachev, who provide firsthand insights into the power of laughter as political dissent. With its unique blend of comedy and history, the 89-minute runtime delivers both entertainment and education about a pivotal era in world politics.