Mr. Nobody Against Putin – Oscar® Nominated

MUST END 3/4!

Director David Borenstein + Director/Film Subject Pasha Talankin in person in conversation with SFFilm’s Joshua Moore after the 2/15 show!

Academy Award® Nominee for Best Documentary Feature

“A striking work of rebel cinema.” – The Daily Beast

Pasha Talankin is an unlikely hero—a beloved Russian primary school teacher, known as a mentor and prankster who offers students a safe haven in his office. After Russia invades Ukraine, Pasha’s role in the school changes dramatically as he is reluctantly drawn into Putin’s propaganda machine. Forced to promote state-sanctioned messages and horrified by the transformation of his school and community, he struggles with guilt and a sense of powerlessness, leading him to become an international whistleblower.

As the school’s videographer, Pasha documents intimate and revealing footage of Putin’s regime, capturing the rise of militarized children’s groups, repressive laws, fervent nationalism, and the recruitment of graduating students to fight in the war. When he learns his own life may be at risk, Pasha is forced to plan a dangerous escape from Russia.

Directed by David Borenstein and co-directed by Pasha Talankin, this uniquely collaborative film is as captivating and joyful as it is eye-opening and sobering. Mr. Nobody Against Putin showcases rare footage that reveals the profound impact of Putin’s regime on the lives of everyday Russians, particularly its children.

And now, a message for from the filmmakers:

Please consider making a tax-deductible contribution to help support our Oscar campaign! We have only a few weeks to go and it is a race against time! We are urgently trying to raise at least $75,000 to cover expenses. Without the deep pockets of a major studio or streaming service, we are doing whatever we can to pay for travel and promotion of the film. We need your help!

THANK YOU for helping us on this exciting journey!