The New Greatness Case 2022
Distributed by Docuseek2
Produced by Ina Fichman
Directed by Anna Shishova
Streaming, 92 mins
College - General Adult
Activism; Constitutional Rights; Documentaries
Date Entered: 02/29/2024
Reviewed by Beth Hall, Electronic Access and Discovery Librarian, University of Alabama at BirminghamThe New Greatness Case follows a group of young Russian students facing political persecution while on trial for allegedly attempting to dismantle the constitution of the Russian Federation. However, it quickly becomes clear that the trial is not so straightforward.
Anya Pavlikova (17) and her online friends build their case around their innocence, expressing they only wanted to discuss politics and current events in a group of like-minded individuals. That is, until a secret service agent joined the chat room, urging them to direct action. Anya and her friends are at the heart of this story as they fight for truth, justice, and free speech. But will their attempt be enough?
This documentary provides an intimate view of the limits of free speech under Putin’s regime and the consequences of political protest and online activism in present day Russia.
Awards:Special Mention Human Rights Dox, DokuFest 2022; Special Mention Documentary Competition, Zurich FF 2022; Grand Jury Prize, BAFICI 2023
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