Putin's Kiss

In the restless corridors of contemporary Russia, a charismatic youth movement called Nashi buzzes with the promise of a new, democratic, anti‑fascist future. The organization’s glossy rallies and state‑backed media projects paint a picture of youthful vigor aligned with the Kremlin’s vision, while the broader society watches, ambivalent and uneasy. The film captures this world through a blend of candid interviews and archival footage, giving the viewer a textured sense of a nation caught between idealism and authority.

At the heart of that world is Masha Drokova, a bright, driven teenager who discovers in Nashi a platform for ambition and belonging. From the age of sixteen she immerses herself in the group’s inner circles, learning the language of loyalty, the choreography of public praise, and the seductive allure of becoming a visible face of the state’s narrative. Her charm and determination quickly elevate her, hinting at both personal triumph and the subtle cost of such ascent.

Parallel to Masha’s rise, a circle of journalists—including the seasoned reporter Oleg Kashin—navigate the same political landscape with a markedly different compass. Their uneasy friendship offers a quiet counterpoint to the glossy optimism of the youth movement, suggesting that beneath the surface of televised enthusiasm lies a complex web of doubt and inquiry. The film hints at the tension between the fervent devotion of a rising star and the skeptical, investigative spirit of those who question the system.

As the story unfolds, Masha finds herself stepping onto a state‑sponsored television set, poised to become the charismatic host of a program aimed at energizing Russia’s younger generation. The tone remains simultaneously hopeful and unsettling, inviting the audience to wonder how far one can chase a dream when the very stage is built on fragile political foundations. The film leaves us with a lingering curiosity about the choices that will shape her convictions and the future she strives to represent.

Last Updated: August 10, 2025 at 07:23