Established in 1955, the Leipzig Film Festival's location in the German Democratic Republic deeply implicated it in cultural and political competition between East and West Germany, opening a political and artistic exchange that would have otherwise been impossible. Screened Encounters represents the definitive history of this key event, recounting its history from its founding until reunification, and tracing the outsize influence it exerted on international cultural relations during the Cold War Introduction. A Festival at the Heart of the Cold War -- A Cold War Festival (1949-1964). The Genesis of the Leipzig Film Festival -- Opening to the World -- Between Propaganda and Cinema Verite -- Between Provincialism and International Dialogue (1964-1973). When the Tide Turns -- Documentaries with a Human Face -- Documentaries in the Service of International Solidarity -- A Trompe L'Oeil Mise en Scene? (1973-1983). Wide-Angle on Socialist Society -- Don't Wait for Better Times -- Toward New Horizons (1984-1990) -- An Opening to the East? -- Revolution: On Screen, On the Street -- Conclusion. Beyond the Cold War: A Memory in the Making | 
