Russia at war – What do Russians say?

In his powerful documentary, filmmaker Demian von Osten provides a rare glimpse into the lives of Russians, their politics, and the war that has been ravaging their country. Living in Russia for almost five years, von Osten has observed the gradual silencing of the Kremlin’s critics and the systematic curtailing of civil liberties, as the authorities grow ever more repressive. Against this backdrop, he has been tirelessly following the stories of four Russians, whose views on the war in Ukraine are representative of the complex political landscape of the country.

Through raw, unfiltered footage and intimate interviews, von Osten’s documentary portrays the stark realities of life in Russia today. The film captures the perspectives of both pro- and anti-Putin Russians, revealing a nation deeply divided over the war in Ukraine, and the wider implications for their society. With its unflinching portrayal of the human cost of war and the erosion of civil liberties, the documentary is a must-see for anyone seeking to understand the complex political situation in Russia today.