Documentary Review: ‘Mr Nobody Against Putin’

by | Jan 26, 2026 | Featured Post, Movie Reviews, Movies | 0 comments


Greetings again from the darkness. Heroes come in many shapes and sizes, and heroic acts may be big or small. What’s consistent is the need for courage to do the right thing, regardless of the circumstances or personal risk. The actions of Pavel “Pasha” Talankin clearly fall under this definition, and with the help of his co-director David Borenstein, the finished film not only provides us with rare insight into Russian life, it has also been nominated for Best Documentary Feature at this year’s Academy Awards.

Pasha was an Event Coordinator and Videographer at a Primary School in Karabash, Russia. It’s a town of approximately 10,000 residents and the pollution from the local refinery business has not only turned the local mountain black, it has also caused the town to be labeled toxic as it reduces the lifespan of locals. Initially we see Pasha’s interactions with the students, including the normal shenanigans and giggles one would expect from the age group. However, things changed quickly in February 2022 when Vladimir Putin announced a “Special Military Operation” … the invasion of Ukraine.

The ‘before’ and ‘after’ contrast is stark. The government takes control of daily lessons while administering the national and war propaganda required to brainwash students (and teachers) that Russia is in the right and Europe is the enemy. Pasha makes for an interesting guide for us. After all, he displays a pro-democracy flag above his desk. He also figures there are dual uses for his camera – fulfilling the requirements set by the government, while also documenting that not all Russians support the war.

“Even a guy like me should have some principles”, Pasha states as he resigns from the school – although he quickly realizes the opportunity afforded by his position. His camera shows the “Stop the War” protests that the Russian government claims never happened. And to be clear, Pasha fully acknowledges the personal risk he is taking by doing what he’s doing. Over the course of two-plus years, it’s heartbreaking to learn of the deaths that occurred for some soldiers who were previously students at the school. It’s a stark reminder that the cost of war is incalculable, making Pasha’s actions all the more courageous, enlightening, and necessary. Should anyone have doubts about the effects of communism and authoritarianism, this striking documentary is a must-see.

David Ferguson
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