Mr Nobody Against Putin
Directed by Pavel “Pasha” Talankin and David Borenstein Produced by: Helle Faber
Pasha Talankin is an unlikely hero—a beloved Russian primary school teacher, known as a mentor and prankster who offers students a safe haven in his office. After Russia invades Ukraine, Pasha’s role in the school changes dramatically as he is reluctantly drawn into Putin’s propaganda machine. Forced to promote state-sanctioned messages and horrified by the transformation of his school and community, he struggles with guilt and a sense of powerlessness, leading him to become an international whistleblower.
As the school’s videographer, Pasha 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. Directed by David Borenstein and co-directed by Pasha Talankin, this uniquely collaborative film is as captivating and joyful as it is eye-opening and sobering. Mr. Nobody Against Putin showcases rare footage that reveals the profound impact of Putin’s regime on the lives of everyday Russians, particularly its children.
Filmmakers' Bios
Pavel “Pasha” Talankin, co-director
Until recently, Pavel Talankin was a teacher-organizer at Karabash Primary School #1 in Karabash, Russia. As part of his job, he served as school videographer and instructed children in shooting and editing video. Mr. Nobody Against Putin is his first film. He now lives in Europe.
David Borenstein, co-director
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 including the BBC, CNN, PBS and ARTE, earning him the broadcast equivalent of the Pulitzer Prize.
Helle Faber, producer and founder of Made in Copenhagen
Producer Helle Faber is behind a bunch of International acclaimed documentary films, among them; Theatre of Violence (2023), The Chocolate War (2022), Lost Warrior (2017), The Stranger (2017), Motley’s Law (2015), Warriors from the North (2014), Putin’s Kiss (2011), Enemies of Happiness (2011). Faber’s work has been awarded on Sundance FF, Idfa, Hot Docs, CPH:DOX, Cinema For Peace, DOCNYC and many other places.