Words of War

The more things change the more they stay the same comes to mind. Chechnya in the late nineties into the early 2000's is more than coincidental to what is presently occurring in The Ukraine. So this story, revolving around Anna Politkovskaya's courage to document Russian war atrocities of The Chechnya conflicts seems, again, relevant in understanding the Putin Russian regime of today.

It's mostly played with a straightforward and low-key style as the murderous tale it tells is quite enough to warrant attention. As such it kind of moves in drips and drabs until back to back crisis of genocide in Chechnya and a FSB manipulated Moscow theater hostage incident put Russian horrors in front of the world.

I found the story of reporter Anna Politkovskaya as depicted here to be a fine memorial to what I'd liken to a mama bear defending her cubs at whatever cost. The woman simply stepped on too many powerful old guard figures in her quest to bring just change to her country. She died far too young but her fight to bring democracy and justice to Russia will certainly live on. Here's hope this film strengthens the oppressed masses to see Russia's tactics of deadly oppression is heading for an end to its shelf life. The Russian people deserve so much more. There is heartbreaking story with a powerful message here for the world to embrace.

Before the barbaric Russian invasion of Ukraine, President Vladimir Putin's Federation conducted an equally unspeakable campaign of brutality against the people of Chechnya in its attempt to become a breakaway independent state. However, the vicious, genocidal atrocities inflicted upon the Chechan population were not widely known at the time, especially amongst Russian citizens. But one intrepid journalist sought to change that. Reporter Anna Politkovskaya (Maxine Peake), a correspondent for Novaya Gazeta, an independent newspaper founded by former Russian Head of State Mikhail Gorbachev whose mission was to report the truth as an alternative to official Russian state propaganda, undertook the task of informing the public of the horrors unfolding in Chechnya. Backed by the unwavering support of her editor, Dmitry Muratov (Ciarán Hinds), from 1999 to 2006, Politkovskaya courageously struggled to get the word out about the ghastly events taking place in the largely Islamic state, incidents that were "justified" as a means to counter the "rising terrorist menace" churning within its borders and in surrounding areas. Politkovskaya's graphic, unrelenting reporting, coupled with scathing criticisms of the Putin regime, gradually caught the attention of the world, earning her an invitation to testify before the United Nations Security Council and winning her Amnesty International's 2001 Award for Humanitarian Journalism. But her writings and activism came at a cost, including attempts on her life, the torture of her on-the-ground Chechan liaison (Fady Elsayad), strained relations with her children (Harry Lawtey, Naomi Battrick), and the ruining of the career of her husband, Sasha (Jason Isaacs), a successful television talk show host. But, from Politkovskaya's perspective, the challenges were worth it to let the world in on Putin's dirty little secret. Indeed, the world might know a lot less about the estimated 60,000 victims of the Chechan Revolt were it not for Polikovskaya's committed reporting. Director James Strong's fact-based feature tells a compelling, if at times formulaic and episodic story examining the tremendous impact of the protagonist's work, as well as the painful impact it had on her and her kindreds. This is effectively brought to life by the positively fierce performances of its superb ensemble, particularly Hinds, Isaacs, and, especially, Peake, all of whom deliver outstanding portrayals worthy of well-deserved awards season consideration. But the message of this film goes beyond just what Politkovskaya did in Chechnya; it shines a bright light on the courageous work of journalists around the globe who have risked (and given) their lives in the pursuit of covering harrowing stories of combat, torture and genocide in the world's political hotspots. It recalls many excellent and revealing previous releases that tell comparable stories, such as "The Killing Fields" (1984), "Viper Club" (2018), "A Private War" (2018) and "Civil War" (2024). And, for its accomplishments, "Words of War" rightfully belongs beside those offerings, poignantly reminding us all - and not just journalists - to remain vigilant in the face of what is or could be unfolding around us. Sadly, this release played fleetingly in theaters and has largely flown below the radar, and it's likely to be overlooked when this year's cinematic accolades are handed out. But, for my money, this is truly must-see viewing, now accessible for streaming on multiple online platforms. Don't miss this one.

I had the privilege of watching this film on World Press Freedom Day. What a powerful and timely story, with great performances from lead actors! Anna's story resonates even louder 20 years later, given the reality we live in today. I keep thinking about what's happening in Ukraine and Gaza and who are the Annas of today. Journalists pursuing truth are real heroes when powerful leaders constantly lie and distort reality, and social media is full of garbage. Was it a perfect movie? Definitely not. Does it need to be perfect? Absolutely not! Do yourself a favor, skip the next superhero flick, and give this real superhero a try!

The story of Russian journalist Anna Politkovskaya played by Maxine Peake, will leave you changed. Premiering the day before the UN's Press Freedom Day, the film takes you on a realistic journey alongside Politkovskaya as she risks everything to cover the second Chechen War.

Politkovskaya was murdered in 2006 for reporting on Russian war crimes and atrocities in Chechnya.

The film was shot beautifully with deliberate drone sequences and perfectly lit scenes that gave broad perspective to the narrative.

A very strong cast including Jason Isaacs, and Ciaran Hinds grab you with their emotionally charged scenes.

While this story occurred almost 20 years ago it remains unfortunately relevant today. The end of the film is strikingly poignant when the screen is filled with picture of the many journalists killed while pursuing the truth.

Beautifully directed, this film will stay with you.

"Words of War" is a powerful, urgent tribute to the frontline storytellers who risk-and too often lose-their lives in pursuit of truth. With an incredible cast that delivers deeply human, emotionally resonant performances, this film doesn't just depict the dangers journalists face-it demands we pay attention to the growing threats against them. In a world where authoritarianism tightens its grip and disinformation spreads like wildfire, stories like this are more vital than ever. We need more films that bear witness, that refuse to let silence win. "Words of War" is not just a film-it's a call to conscience.