Pavel Talankin, a former events coordinator from Karabash, has transformed his life from relative obscurity to becoming an Oscar nominee in less than two years. After fleeing Russia in the summer of 2024 for his personal safety, Talankin, known as Pasha, found himself in the Hollywood spotlight with his documentary, Mr Nobody Against Putin. The film, which critiques the Kremlin’s propaganda efforts following the invasion of Ukraine, won the award for best documentary at the Bafta Film Awards in February 2024.
When we met in Los Angeles just days before the Oscars, Pasha celebrated his 35th birthday with shiny pink balloons. He reflected on his unexpected rise in the film industry and shared his experiences photographing Hollywood’s elite, including actors Leonardo DiCaprio and Ethan Hawke. Pasha remarked, “They are just normal people like the rest of us,” highlighting his down-to-earth demeanor despite his newfound fame.
The documentary, created in collaboration with American director David Borenstein, chronicles Pasha’s journey from a school videographer to a whistleblower exposing the realities of life in Russia under authoritarianism. His work at the school involved filming student performances, but the war led to a shift in focus, imposing strict patriotic mandates. Pasha described his role as a “monitor of the teachers,” where he was compelled to document compliance with government directives.
Recognizing the dangers of his situation, Pasha chose to rebel against the regime. He began sending footage to Borenstein using encrypted channels. “In those seconds I was driven by rage,” he recalled, emphasizing his desire to share the truth about what was happening in Russia. Borenstein noted the importance of the film in illustrating the broader implications of Putin’s regime, stating, “We thought it was so important for the world to see that Putin obviously has no intention of stopping with just Ukraine.”
The documentary provides a harrowing glimpse into the impact of war on the youth of Russia. Pasha recorded Wagner mercenary group soldiers instructing students on weapons handling and heard stories of former students who lost their lives in battle. A poignant moment in the film captures a grieving mother at her son’s graveside, a scene Pasha could not film but chose to document audibly instead.
Pasha’s acts of defiance included changing pro-war propaganda symbols on school windows and removing the Russian flag while playing Lady Gaga’s rendition of the U.S. National Anthem. Despite these actions, Pasha downplays his bravery, stating, “It’s just normal.” Borenstein, however, argues differently, describing him as “someone that is very brave” and deeply concerned about the truth.
As they worked on the film, the filmmakers faced significant risks to protect Pasha and those featured. Borenstein shared insights about their security protocols, recalling the dire assessments they received concerning the risks in Russia. “We were scared,” he said. “He wasn’t scared.”
Ultimately, the threats grew too close for comfort, prompting Pasha to flee. He recounted a tense moment when he spotted a police car outside his apartment, leading him to understand it was time to leave. A Russian-speaking producer advised him on how to safely cross the border, reminding him to delete secure messaging apps and stay calm.
Now residing in an undisclosed location in Europe, Pasha holds onto the hope of returning to Russia once the regime falls. “When the regime has fallen, I am planning to return and be useful,” he said. His focus remains on ensuring that Mr Nobody Against Putin reaches as many viewers as possible, believing it will resonate with Russians who share his views.
The film has already made an impact in his hometown. During its premiere at the Sundance Film Festival, someone recorded the screening and shared it among the residents of Karabash. Pasha revealed that nearly 200,000 teachers have resigned from their positions rather than participate in a system that indoctrinates children. His aim is to assure those who think like him that they are not alone.
As we walked along Santa Monica Pier, Pasha shared somber news that weighed heavily on him. He had just learned that one of his students, Nikita, had been killed in Ukraine. “I know him. He is a kind guy and he would never have gone without the propaganda,” Pasha reflected, underscoring the personal toll of war.
Should Pasha win the Oscar, he plans to have his acceptance speech crafted by his former students, already working on it with enthusiasm. “If we win, it’s going to be their speech,” he concluded, embodying the spirit of resilience and hope that defines his journey.
The documentary Mr Nobody Against Putin is available for viewing on BBC iPlayer.
