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MUBI Acquires Acclaimed Doc on Russian Journalists' Plight
28 Jan
Summary
- MUBI will distribute Julia Loktev's acclaimed two-part documentary epic.
- The films chronicle Russian independent journalists forced into exile.
- The documentary explores authoritarianism's impact on those who resist.
Global distributor MUBI has announced its acquisition of Julia Loktev's acclaimed nonfiction epic, "My Undesirable Friends," encompassing both Part I and its forthcoming sequel.
Part I, titled "Last Air in Moscow," premiered at the 2024 New York Film Festival and has garnered significant critical acclaim, including an Oscar shortlist nomination for Best Documentary Feature. The film offers an intimate look at Russian independent journalists targeted by the Putin regime.
This powerful documentary takes a drastic turn as Russia initiates a full-scale war in Ukraine, compelling the journalists, including Alesya Marokhovskaya and Anna Nemzer, into exile. The sequel, "Part II -- Exile," follows their journey across countries as they grapple with the war they oppose.
Loktev, who immigrated from Russia, stated that she unexpectedly captured history, creating a film about a country descending into authoritarianism and the resilient individuals who resist. The title "My Undesirable Friends" references Russia's designation for groups it disfavors, including independent media and human rights organizations.
