Cast : Merab NINDZE, Rosa KHAIRULLINA, Anna MIKHALKOVA
2021 / drama / Russia / 106’ / Color / status : completed / Russian / All Rights / International catalogue
David, a university professor, takes to social media to criticize his city’s administration. But instead of the mayor’s dodgy dealings being investigated, David is himself accused of embezzlement and placed under house arrest. Despite the overbearing surveillance, double-crossing acquaintances, and growing media interest, David remains defiant and will not apologise. With the court case drawing ever nearer, does David have any hope of winning this battle against Goliath?
With this satirical drama, award-winning director Aleksey Guerman Jr. (Dovlatov – Berlin 2018 Silver Bear, Under Electric Clouds – Berlin 2015 Silver Bear, Paper Soldier – Venice 2008 Best Director), delivers a character study perfectly in sync with the current events in Russia.
Press
“A Kafkaesque single-location satire about the considerable cost of doing the right thing. The film has a charismatic and textured central character who widens the scope of the picture. Ninidze is an abrasive pleasure.”
Wendy Ide, SCREEN
“Downright accessible and straightforward. The film will resonate with anyone aware of how harshly people are treated who speak out throughout that country. As the world slowly emerges from the trauma of the pandemic, it’s impossible not to see reflections of our recent experiences in the art we consume.”
Leslie Felperin, THE HOLLYWOOD REPORTER
