No Nation Without Culture

The documentary delves into the impact of powerful political figures in Chechnya, particularly through the lens of the filmmaker’s personal connection to the area. Through the use of striking visuals and a sense of urgency, Sandu captures the oppressive environment marked by the omnipresence of portraits of Putin and the Kadyrovs.

Shot under precarious conditions, the film highlights the risks involved in documenting the stark realities of life in Grozny. The early morning shooting from a car window underscores the constant threat faced by those who oppose the regime. This film is a reflection on the broader implications of fascism in contemporary Russia and serves as a poignant commentary on the intersection of personal history and political oppression.