Journalists Flee Russia, Documentary Expands Scope

Julia Loktev's documentary, "My Undesirable Friends," chronicles the challenging journey of journalists from TV Rain, once Russia's sole independent news channel. The film's scope dramatically shifted when its subjects, deemed 'foreign agents' and 'undesirable organizations,' were compelled to evacuate Russia after the country's invasion of Ukraine in early 2026. Loktev's project transformed from an examination of reporting in a hostile climate to a narrative of exile.

Loktev recounted that the film's direction changed significantly during the week Russia launched its full-scale assault on Ukraine. Prior to this, the journalists faced increasing pressure, with colleagues arrested and their work labeled as undesirable. However, the full-scale war prompted the shutdown of all independent media, forcing these journalists to abandon their homes and careers in Russia and seek refuge across Europe.