The documentary ‘The Trial’ explores the truth behind the political proces of the state Russia against Ukrainian documentary maker and activist Oleg Sentsov. In August Oleg was sentenced to 20 years in prison in Siberia for terrorism. According to Amnesty International it was a ‘fatally flawed’ proces, that resembles the Stalinist-era show trials of dissidents.

At the 14th of May this year, Oleg Sentsov went on hunger strike to demand the release of all Ukrainian political prisoners. We’ll watch the film and talk about his situation. What can be done to change his situation?

In August 2015, despite insufficient evidence, the case inconsistencies and the key witness’s change of testimony, the Russian courts sentenced Ukrainian film maker Oleg Sentsov to 20 years in prison. The trial got much international media attention and became a symbol in the fight for journalistic freedom.

Director Askold Kurov investigates the circumstances of Oleg Sentsov’s case, follows the progress of the trial and the attempts of Oleg’s family, friends and lawyers to save him from prison. Kurov’s investigation gradually reveals an absurd and frightening Kafkaesque story about how anyone can become a victim of a ruthless state machine.

Speakers

After the film we talk with Christie Miedema from Amnesty International and with the Ukrainian film maker Mariia Ponomarova. We’ll then make a Skype call with director Askold Kurov. He has just visited Oleg Sentsov at the prison.

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