The Putin Interviews

Oliver Stone's The Putin Interviews is… garbage. Stone, though respected as a filmmaker, at least for some of his earlier works, loses all credibility with this attempt at a "documentary". This four-part series is not a documentary, and it cannot be called journalism either. Is just a platform that Putin uses to justify to the world his policies, in his own manner of course: politically correct at times, even diplomatic, but with some subtle/not-so-subtle references, even irony when needed. Stone as an interviewer is practically useless. His questions are at times obviously ill-prepared, but, more annoying is his way of asking something by providing the way in which the question could be dodged. Not that Putin needs help with that. He has a lot of practice with his annual Valdai Club's meetings, Direct Lines and call-in shows. All of this while witnessing Stone's anti-Americanism and admiration for everything that is Russia or Russian. In the end we do not learn anything new. To be avoided.

Enjoyed this immensely. Great to hear another side of recent history from one of the protagonists. Probably wouldn't go for drinks with Putin but he certainly knows how to explain his point of view within the current world order. So refreshing for a leader to explain his political position/opinions with historical references and not needing to hide behind tweets to defend decisions that have little thought behind them and even less support. Mr. Stone, although not a heavyweight interviewer, manages to cover areas of interest to the American media/audience while at the same time allowing Putin to give an insight into the problems facing his country and how absurd he considers the time wasting and unfounded accusations leveled at Russia for meddling in the 2016 US Presidencial Election. Well done Mr. Stone.

Thank you Oliver for this professionally shot honest documentary. it's actually 8/10 but added two more stars because of your brave questions. we hear lots of stuff about Putin, most of them ain't good. That he is dictator and things like that. Well we shot his aircraft and he didn't act like an idiot and went into war, even god knows he could beat Turkey. But instead he had diplomatic move instead of idiotic one. as I Watched your film, I understood he is much more professional and good leader then I thought. His answers are great and he seems cold(typical Russian) but honest which what makes your doc looks like a propaganda. as I film maker myself, I can understand what is propaganda what is not. this one isn't. I've watched him on hard talk after this. He is same as here. cool and slow.

Deep topics masquerading as small talk between Mr. Putin and Mr. Stone that surprisingly have some real insight into The President's mind.

I was impressed by these interviews and I'll follow him more from now on. Putin's stance on different economical, political, military and more personal topics made me respect him, something I rarely have for politicians nowadays.

I liked those hours with Putin. You don't have to like this person nor his work, but at least you should listen to this man. He is unagitated and articulates his view and interests. Also it's an opportunity to get a few insights of a man and a country which most people will never visit and only watch in the TV or read in the newspaper. Well, you won't learn much about the country but maybe some will realize there are other countries with interests too and like Oliver Stone did it: listen to them, you don't have to agree, but dialogue is the way we should choose.