The New Greatness Case

As we are witnessing the intensified crackdown on dissent and free expression in Russia, The New Greatness Case brings you into the life of young Russians caught in the crossfire. Anya was an ordinary teenager, discussing Russian politics and social issues on the internet with a group of friends, when a secret agent joined their chat group and rented them a meeting space – pushing them towards direct physical action. Police storm their homes to arrest and jail the teens, accusing them of plotting to overthrow the government and fabricating charges of extremism. Three years later, Anya’s mother, continuing her desperate fight to prove her daughter’s innocence, has transformed from a loyal follower of Vladimir Putin to a hunger-strike enacting political activist. With hidden camera footage, and an intimate relationship with the protagonists, director Anna Shishova shows the complete repression of present-day Russia, and how young, free-thinking people, are seen as a threat to the government.

“A courageous and dedicated film with incredible scenes. The case against the kids is so grotesque, it keeps you watching for the next twist.”- Bill Van Esveld, Associate Director, Children’s Rights Division, Human Rights Watch

Screening as part of the Human Rights Watch Film Festival 2022

All cinemas are wheelchair accessible.Fully subtitled in English. Assistive listening devices available for all screenings. Please visit individual venue websites or contact individual box offices for details and note that equipment is subject to availability. Post-screening discussions will offer CART (live transcription).