In 2003, as the United States confronted North Korea over its resumption of nuclear weapons production, North Koreans prepared to celebrate the 50th anniversary of their supposed “victory” over the South in the Korean War. This Wide Angle documentary tells the story of two teenage girls preparing to participate in the Mass Games, one of the last surviving Communist showcase pageants and a celebration of North Korea’s statehood and revolutionary zeal. Capturing a mixture of excitement and contradiction at the heart of the state-produced spectacle, this program yields valuable insights into family life and daily activity in the little-known world of the “hermit kingdom.” In addition, Professor Charles Armstrong discusses North Korea with anchor Jamie Rubin. (57 minutes)