Julia Loktev's Venice Documentary Chronicles Russian Exiled Journalists

At the 2026 Venice Film Festival (Mostra de Venise), filmmaker Julia Loktev presented the second part of her documentary 'Mes amis indésirables' (My Undesirable Friends), which profoundly moved the audience. The film focuses on the lives of Russian journalists who were forced to flee their country abruptly and now strive to inform their fellow citizens about the war in Ukraine, despite precarious conditions and intimidation. The documentary highlights their resilience and the challenges they face in exile. Loktev, known for her previous works, brings a personal and urgent perspective to the plight of these reporters. The screening took place on September 4, 2026, as reported by Le Monde. The film underscores the critical role of independent journalism in times of conflict and the sacrifices made by those who continue to report under threat. The audience's emotional response at the festival indicates the powerful impact of the documentary, which sheds light on a pressing issue affecting press freedom and the lives of journalists in exile.