Grassroots Journalism Challenges Russian Authorities

Read Time:3 Minute, 39 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Black Snow
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Genre: Documentary
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 40m
Director(s): Alina Simone
Language: Russian with English subtitles
Where To Watch: world premiere at the 2024 CPH:DOX Film Festival

RAVING REVIEW: BLACK SNOW dives headfirst into the chilling realities of Kiselyovsk, a town in Kemerovo Oblast, Russia, located in the foothill belt of the Salair Ridge, at the source of the Aba River shrouded in coal dust, shown through the eyes of Natalia Zubkova, a journalist turned environmental warrior. This documentary stitches together a compelling narrative that extends beyond the confines of its runtime, spotlighting the transformative journey of a mother driven to protect her children from the encroaching dangers of industrial pollution. It's a gripping watch that blends the rawness of real-world activism with the emotional depth of a personal crusade, offering viewers a front-row seat to the battle lines drawn in the fight for environmental justice.

As the curtain rises on Kiselyovsk, engulfed in toxic fog, BLACK SNOW lays bare the grim realities of life on the frontline of Russia's coal controversy. The story gains momentum as Zubkova steps into the international spotlight with a daring plea for help, igniting a series of events that spotlight the uphill battle against bureaucratic behemoths. This narrative pivot isn't just a plot twist; it's a rallying cry, echoing the perseverance and grit required to challenge the status quo. When you think Russia is in the news just for its horrid attack on Ukraine, we get to see another attack, this time against people with no ability to fight back. Zubkova is doing what she can to change that narrative and make a lasting difference.

Behind the camera, Alina Simone weaves her experiences with Soviet-era suppression into the film's fabric, lending an authenticity and depth that enriches the tale being told. Her directorial approach marries Zubkova's struggle with the sweeping scope of environmental and political challenges, painting a vivid picture of the ecological disaster unfolding in Kiselyovsk and its ripple effects on global environmental policies.

At its heart, BLACK SNOW is a testament to human resilience, spotlighting the extraordinary lengths individuals will go to unveil the truth and defend their communities. The film transcends a mere environmental exposé, morphing into a clarion call for preserving democratic principles and the pivotal role of the free press in challenging the powers that be.

Simone's debut shines a spotlight on the dire consequences of coal addiction in Russia, setting it against the backdrop of a global shift away from fossil fuels. The localized struggle against coal in Kiselyovsk is portrayed as a microcosm of the broader battle against climate change, highlighting the obstacles posed by entrenched interests.

BLACK SNOW occasionally struggles with pacing and focus, sometimes glossing over the potential of broader community mobilization efforts. While it portrays the challenges of environmental activism, there's a lingering thirst for a deeper dive into how these battles contribute to more significant societal shifts. Despite these minor hiccups, BLACK SNOW is a substantial contribution to discussions on environmental stewardship, the empowerment of the press, and the unwavering spirit of those who refuse to back down in the face of overwhelming odds.

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[photo courtesy of NORDLAND PICTURES, PRETTIER IN THE DARK PRODUCTIONS]

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