'Anti-Russian' controversy surrounds Oscar nominated film Leviathan
- 9 years ago
Russian director Andrei Zvyagintsev has picked up international acclaim for his Oscar-nominated film ‘Leviathan’ but the drama is dividing opinion back home.
Produced by Ukrainian-born filmmaker Alexander Rodnyansky, it tells the story of a car mechanic who fights against a corrupt mayor’s plan to evict him from his property.
Euronews spoke to Rodnyansky to find out more about how it is possible for his film to be lauded overseas and denounced at home.
Elena Karaeva, euronews:
Some see Leviathan as a critique of Russia itself, with allegations that it is “Russophobic” and a “vile parody of contemporary Russian morals”. How do you respond to that?
Alexander Rodnyansky:
I think that the discussions taking place in Russia are not just about the film and its artistic qualities. But also about deeper reflection about where Russia is right now, where it is heading and why?
The way I see it and the way the director sees it, the film thanks to its unequaled social realism is an he
Produced by Ukrainian-born filmmaker Alexander Rodnyansky, it tells the story of a car mechanic who fights against a corrupt mayor’s plan to evict him from his property.
Euronews spoke to Rodnyansky to find out more about how it is possible for his film to be lauded overseas and denounced at home.
Elena Karaeva, euronews:
Some see Leviathan as a critique of Russia itself, with allegations that it is “Russophobic” and a “vile parody of contemporary Russian morals”. How do you respond to that?
Alexander Rodnyansky:
I think that the discussions taking place in Russia are not just about the film and its artistic qualities. But also about deeper reflection about where Russia is right now, where it is heading and why?
The way I see it and the way the director sees it, the film thanks to its unequaled social realism is an he