Putin's Kiss

Through a captivating blend of candid interviews and archival footage, Putin's Kiss delves into the extraordinary journey of Masha Drokova (played by a charismatic young actress), who rose through the ranks of Russia's enigmatic youth organization Nashi. This self-proclaimed democratic, anti-fascist, and anti-'oligarchic-capitalist' movement captivated her from the tender age of 16 to 19, as she navigated its inner workings with increasing authority and influence. Eventually, she became the charming host of a popular, state-funded television program aimed at Russia's youth.

Drokova's unbridled enthusiasm for Russian President Vladimir Putin (played by himself) is palpable, particularly in an unforgettable moment where she impulsively showered him with affection during a medal presentation ceremony, earning her film its title. As the narrative unfolds, Drokova forms close bonds with several fellow journalists, many of whom harbor deep-seated reservations about Russia's ruling party. Her convictions are repeatedly tested, leaving her increasingly torn between these two competing ideologies.

The situation reaches a boiling point when Oleg Kashin (played by an accomplished journalist), one of her closest friends and colleagues, is brutally assaulted; though the perpetrators remain unknown, many speculate that they were acting on behalf of the Kremlin. By the film's conclusion, Drokova has severed ties with Nashi and is now free to engage in open discussions about her beliefs with Kashin, marking a profound transformation in her perspective.