Doc Talk Podcast: Filmmaker Julia Loktev Discusses Her Challenging Relationships with Independent Journalists Reporting from Russia

Russian President Vladimir Putin’s actions have consistently led to the emigration of individuals advocating for democratic values and independent thought.

This trend is highlighted in the Oscar-winning documentary Mr. Nobody Against Putin, which tells the story of a beloved elementary school teacher in eastern Russia who was exiled for resisting Kremlin mandates to adopt a propagandistic curriculum following the country’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. In a related narrative, the Oscar-shortlisted documentary My Undesirable Friends: Part I – Last Air in Moscow, directed by Julia Loktev, follows a group of young female journalists who find themselves labeled as enemies of the state for reporting independently.

Loktev explains that one reason for the story’s resonance is the relatability of the documentary participants. She notes that they engage in “hate-watching” shows like Emily in Paris and shop at popular Western retailers such as Zara and H&M, forging a connection with a global audience. However, these women also faced the urgent necessity to flee their homes, hastily packing their belongings to escape potential arrest by federal agents.

Looking ahead, Loktev also provides a glimpse into the upcoming My Undesirable Friends: Part 2, which is anticipated to be a strong contender for awards upon its release later this year.