A Chilling Reminder of Why Resistance Matters
MOVIE REVIEW
Mr. Nobody Against Putin
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Genre: Documentary
Year Released: 2025
Runtime: 1h 30m
Director(s): David Borenstein, Pavel “Pasha” Talankin
Where To Watch: shown at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival
RAVING REVIEW: This documentary refuses to look away from uncomfortable truths, offering a timely and harrowing glimpse into the personal and political consequences of unchecked nationalism. MR. NOBODY AGAINST PUTIN isn’t just a story about a teacher with a camera—it’s a warning about the dangers of propaganda, the insidious nature of authoritarianism, and the immense power of small acts of resistance. Directed by David Borenstein and co-directed by Pavel “Pasha” Talankin, this film invites viewers into a raw, unfiltered narration that feels as urgent as ever, especially in today’s political climate.
At its heart is Pasha, a teacher in a small Russian town, who becomes an unlikely hero to some and a whistleblower to others. Known for his humor, passion, and dedication to his students, Pasha starts as a figure of comfort and safety for his students. Yet, as his school is transformed into a stage for state-driven militarization, his role shifts. What was once a place of laughter and learning becomes a machine for indoctrination, where standard lessons are replaced with marching drills, brainwashing, and “patriotic” chants. This transformation forces Pasha to confront an impossible choice: comply with the system or risk everything to expose it.
The story evolves through Pasha’s secret recordings, a series of raw and often unsettling visuals that capture the impact of propaganda on young minds. Children once engaged in everyday school activities are now subjected to government-mandated programs designed to instill unwavering loyalty to the state. These images make the stakes unmistakably clear, showcasing the emotional and intellectual cost of a militarized education system.
One of the most remarkable aspects of the film is Borenstein's and Talankin's collaboration. Their partnership, built over years of encrypted communication, adds unparalleled passion to the project. Every frame carries immense personal risk, as Pasha faces the constant threat of imprisonment—or worse—should his actions be discovered. This looming danger is a hovering fear and a driving force that amplifies the story's urgency.
Visually, the film leans into its raw aesthetic, presenting footage as unfiltered as the story it tells. The rogue quality of the recordings reminds us that this is not just a production—it’s a living document of resistance. The juxtaposition of happy, fun-filled moments among children with the cold rigidity of militarized drills creates a feeling that will never leave you.
What makes MR. NOBODY AGAINST PUTIN resonates deeply in its ability to balance the personal and the political. While the film examines the broader implications of Russia’s militarization, it never loses sight of the human story at its core. Pasha’s internal struggle—guilt, fear, and ultimate resolve—anchors the narrative, making the stakes intimate and universal.
The film also raises critical questions about the global implications of propaganda and nationalism. Given the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the resurgence of authoritarian tendencies worldwide, this story feels eerily relevant. It’s a stark reminder of how easily unchecked power can manipulate societies and how fragile democratic ideals can be. In the context of leaders like Donald Trump—whose admiration for figures like Putin raises significant concerns—this documentary feels like both a cautionary tale and a call to action.
Amid its heavy themes, the documentary finds moments of hope. Pasha’s unwavering commitment to his students and belief in the possibility of change offer glimpses of resilience. These moments remind viewers that the human spirit can endure even in the darkest circumstances. The film underscores the idea that while a country’s leadership may push harmful ideologies, its citizens are not all blind robots. Ordinary people, like Pasha, can defy expectations and challenge narratives, proving that resistance is always possible.
This isn’t just a film about one man's determination in Russia; it’s a story about humanity’s capacity for resistance, even in the face of overwhelming odds. The film warns its audience against blind nationalism, exposing its ability to fracture societies and weaponize education against its youngest and most vulnerable members.
MR. NOBODY AGAINST PUTIN is a sobering critique of propaganda’s reach and a celebration of the courage it takes to oppose it. Pasha’s story chronicles his bravery and reflects what’s possible when ordinary people refuse to accept the unacceptable. In a time of rising nationalism and authoritarianism, this documentary is a timely and vital reminder of the cost of complicity and the power of resistance.
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[photo courtesy of MADE IN COPENHAGEN, PINK PRODUCTIONS]
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