Outside the Canon: Eastern Europe

This article examines the position of Eastern European cinema within the recent Sight and Sound poll for the Best Films of all time. It discusses the designation 'Eastern Europe' as such and the ways in which this may have influenced critical perception. It considers the legitimacy of canons together with the defining role of distribution, festivals, and Blu-ray releases. It suggests that many films are not represented due to limited exposure and an accompanying lack of knowledge. It nonetheless applauds the initiative and the stimulation of debate and discussion of little known titles.