Movie: Mr. Nobody Against Putin
Running Time: 1:30
Nominated for: Documentary Feature
How I watched: Apple TV
When it had me: From the drop
When it lost me: Never
What systems does it challenge: Authoritarianism and Propaganda
Mr. Nobody Against Putin begins with a Russian citizen receiving instructions for how to safely leave the country and I found it completely gripping. Pasha is an events organizer, teacher and AV club leader at a school in the Ural Mountains of Russia. He loves his job and giving the students spaces to feel free to express themselves and build community.
After Russia's war with Ukraine begins, the federal government implements new rules. Pasha then documents the changes to culture and community under the new policies designed to indoctrinate students with alternate histories, illicit undying loyalty for the mother land and ultimately prepare children for military service. He loathes his new role as propagandist and must find a way to express dissent and rebel.
This was a riveting glimpse into Russian life and political climate. Russia is pretty good at controlling all messaging so to see this is rare and illuminating.
It was also horrifying to see the road America could go down. Trump has always been an open fan of Putin and remarked how he would like to do things more like the dictator. How will our teachers, community leaders and citizens respond to these kinds of tactics if the fascist regime were to continue unchecked into the future? At what point would I leave, also realizing that not everyone can leave? Some will have to stay and endure.
I felt this film in my gut and lungs as I paid close attention, wanting everything to work and knowing there would be consequences. This was powerful film making from an extremely relatable and inspiring individual.
No comments:
Post a Comment