International Documentary Film Festival
March 30 - April 6, 2025
Kaptol Boutique Cinema, Zagreb

Mr. Nobody Against Putin

David Borenstein, Pavel "Pasha" Talankin

Mr. Nobody Against Putin

As Russia launches its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, primary schools across Russia are transformed into recruitment stages for the war. Facing the ethical dilemma of working in a system defined by propaganda and violence, a brave teacher films what's really happening in his own school. He 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. Mr. Nobody Against Putin showcases rare footage that reveals the profound impact of Putin’s regime on the lives of everyday Russians, particularly their children.

Denmark, Czech Republic 2025, '90

DIRECTOR: David Borenstein, Pavel "Pasha" Talankin

SCENARIO: David Borenstein

CAMERA: Pavel Talankin

MONTAGE: Nicolaj Monberg, Rebekka Lonqvist

MUSIC: Michal Rataj

PRODUCERS: Helle Faber

PRODUCTION: Made in Copenhagen, Pink Productions

FESTIVALS & AWARDS:

Sundance | Winner: Special Jury Award (2025)
Göteborg FF (2025)

David Borenstein

David Borenstein

David Borenstein is a filmmaker based in Copenhagen. His award-winning films include Can’t Feel Nothing (CPH: DOX 2024), Love Factory (NYTimes 2021), and Dream Empire (IDFA 2016). In addition to his feature work, David has produced and directed television for countless international broadcasters, earning him the broadcast equivalent of the Pulitzer Prize.

Pavel "Pasha" Talankin

Pavel "Pasha" Talankin

Until recently, Pavel "Pasha" Talankin was a teacher-organizer at Karabash Primary School #1 in Karabash, Russia. As part of his job, he served as a school videographer and instructed children how to shoot and edit videos. Mr. Nobody Against Putin is his first film. He now lives in Europe.

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