Oscar-Winning Director Pavel Talankin on Exile and 'Mr Nobody vs Putin'

Oscar-winning director Pavel Talankin, known for his film 'Mr Nobody vs Putin,' discusses his journey from a small Russian town to global cinema. The film, which won a Special Prize at Sundance and Academy Awards, has faced a ban in Russia and led to Talankin being labeled a 'foreign agent.'

Talankin views the Russian government's actions as unintended publicity, stating, "It's a super cool advert!" He believes the film's strength lies in its simplicity, effectively capturing political reality transforming ordinary lives. The documentary highlights how children are taught to handle weapons and how mercenaries influence them, leading to a generation he calls "discarded" by society and the state.

Having left Russia two years ago, Talankin dislikes the term 'exile,' preferring to focus on the deep connection to one's homeland beyond political borders. He finds freedom in Europe, praising Paris for its vibrant bookshops and the Czech Republic for its ingrained respect in public transport, contrasting it with his experiences in Moscow.

Talankin encourages Russians who share his stance and feel in 'internal exile,' emphasizing that navigating such situations is a personal journey without a clear manual. He also expressed gratitude to journalists continuing their work despite bans, calling them "heroes" for their crucial role in maintaining independent journalism.