Mr. Nobody Against Putin offers an unprecedented glimpse into life in Putin's Russia through the eyes of Pavel “Pasha” Talankin, a teacher turned accidental documentarian. The film uncovers the chilling impact of state propaganda. Borenstein frequently explores the intersection of cultural identity, migration, and globalization, often employing intimate, character-driven approach to illuminate larger social issues. 

Talankin is beloved by his students and provides a sanctuary for self-expression within the school in a small town of Karabash. However, with the onset of the war in Ukraine, the state mandates propaganda lessons that transform his role from mentor to enforcer of hollow slogans. In a quiet act of defiance, Talankin keeps the camera rolling—filming not only state-ordered activities but also the broader social shifts gripping his town. These thousands of clandestine recordings form the backbone of a film that juxtaposes moments of everyday life with the devastating consequences of authoritarianism, as former students are sent to the frontlines, some never to return.

Mr. Nobody Against Putin was produced by Helle Faber of Danish outfit made in copenhagen, along with Radovan Síbrt, Alžběta Karásková, and Petra Dobešová of PINK. The Czech Audiovisual Fund supported the production of the film with €40 000 reinforcing the country’s commitment to amplifying voices from politically fraught regions, while Czech professionals worked on the visual and sound post-production.

Since its premiere at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival, where it garnered Special Jury Award, Mr. Nobody Against Putin has gone on to win 14 major awards at festivals around the world (including Cinetopia, ZagrebDox, and DocBarcelona) and also took home the Audience Award at the Ji.hlava International Documentary Film Festival. The film was also nominated by the prestigious Producers Guild of America (PGA).

The Academy Awards ceremony will be held on 15 March 2026, with US comedian Conan O'Brien returning to host the ceremony in Los Angeles.