The Casino Theatre is the site of a Newport Film screening of “Mr. Nobody Against Putin” this Thursday, April 17. Tickets are $15 per person

The nigh begins with a reception with complimentary small bites and beverages at 6 p.m., followed by opening remarks by Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse and the film at 7 p.m.

After the screening, there will be a post-film conversation with Katie Behan (teacher, Rogers High School), Dr. Symeon Giannakos (Salve Regina University), Jessica E. Gomez (junior, Rogers High School), Dr. Victoria Gonzalez (Salve Regina University), Christine Lopes Metcalfe (Vice Chair, ACLU RI), and Bryanna Pierre (senior, Rogers High School).

About the film

Pasha Talankin is an unlikely hero — a beloved Russian primary school teacher, known as a mentor and prankster, who offers students a safe haven in his office. After Russia invades Ukraine, Pasha’s role in the school changes dramatically as he is reluctantly drawn into Putin’s propaganda machine. Forced to promote state-sanctioned messages and horrified by the transformation of his school and community, he struggles with guilt and a sense of powerlessness, leading him to become an international whistleblower.

As the school’s videographer, Pasha documents intimate and revealing footage of Putin’s regime, capturing the rise of militarized children’s groups, repressive laws, fervent nationalism, and the recruitment of graduating students to fight in the war. When he learns his own life may be at risk, Pasha is forced to plan a dangerous escape from Russia.

Directed by David Borenstein and co-directed by Pasha Talankin, this uniquely collaborative film is as captivating and joyful as it is eye-opening and sobering. Mr. Nobody Against Putin showcases rare footage that reveals the profound impact of Putin’s regime on the lives of everyday Russians, particularly its children.