Die alte neue Welt (The Old New World) (1977) is an East German documentary directed by Annelie and Andrew Thorndike. The film explores the evolution of human history over millions of years, tracing the development of societal formations from primitive society to socialism and communism. Through a blend of archival footage, original graphics, and animation, it contextualizes the progress of human civilization within the broader timeline of Earth's history. The documentary argues that only in socialism or communism can a foundation for a dignified human life truly exist. The film features a musical score by Hans-Dieter Hosalla, performed by the Staatskapelle Berlin.
Crew
Andrew Thorndike
Director, Script
Annelie Thorndike
Director, Script
Christa Bramann
Editor
Hans-Joachim Funk
Producer, Production Manager
Lotti Brösicke
Production Assistant
Rainer Drewes
Production Assistant, Researcher
Manfred Jurk
Production Assistant
Valentine Kern
Production Assistant
Werner Klein
Sound
Heiner Lück
Sound
Peter Nölle
Sound
Hans Moser
Special Effects
Thomas Rosié
Special Effects
Hans-Dieter Hosalla
Music
Lisa Hadaschik
Researcher
Jenna Pozzi
Researcher
Peter Vatter
Researcher
Ebo Baumann
Graphic Designer
Siegfried Ebert
Graphic Designer