Character Relationship Map: Meeting Gorbachev

Characters

• Self (played by Mikhail Gorbachev) — protagonist
• Self (played by Werner Herzog) — protagonist
• Self (played by Miklós Németh) — supporting
• Self (played by Lech Wałęsa) — supporting
• Self (played by George Shultz) — supporting
• Self (played by George H. W. Bush) — supporting
• Self (played by Margaret Thatcher) — minor
• Self (played by James Baker III) — minor
• Self (played by Horst Teltschik) — minor

Story Analysis

Intimate portrait of Mikhail Gorbachev reflecting on his historic presidency

Plot Progression

1. The Intimate Portrait — Werner Herzog establishes a personal connection with Mikhail Gorbachev, setting the stage for reflective conversations.
2. Diplomatic Transformations — Gorbachev recounts his pivotal role in nuclear disarmament and the easing of Cold War tensions.
3. European Reshaping — The focus shifts to German reunification and its impact on the geopolitical landscape.
4. Soviet Transformation — Gorbachev reflects on perestroika, glasnost, and the eventual dissolution of the Soviet Union.
5. Historical Reflections — The documentary concludes with Gorbachev's assessment of his legacy and vision for the future.