In a wood on the edge of St Petersburg, names are read out in memory of those lost during Joseph Stalin's Great Terror. This somber act takes place during Russia's annual Remembrance Day for Victims of Political Repression, where victims are honored, and the scars of history are revisited.
Today, however, remembrance is overshadowed by the repressive reality of contemporary Russia. Authorities adopt a more favorable portrayal of Stalin, while dissenters face harsh penalties. The situation sees a resurgence in tactics aimed at silencing critics, reminiscent of the past where labeling dissenters as 'enemies of the people' was common.
Diana Loginova, a music student and frontwoman of the band Stoptime, is caught up in this turbulent environment. Recently charged for organizing a street concert that allegedly obstructed pedestrian flow in St Petersburg, Diana finds herself facing multiple legal charges after spending weeks in jail.
Despite these challenges, Diana and her band continue to perform songs by artists critical of the current regime, drawing crowds of young supporters eager for change. Videos of their performances surface on social media, illustrating the power of music as a form of resistance in a country where expression is increasingly stifled.
As the authorities crack down on young activists, Diana stands as a symbol of bravery among a disheartened population, showing that even in a climate of fear, the spirit of youth and creativity cannot be completely extinguished.
Today, however, remembrance is overshadowed by the repressive reality of contemporary Russia. Authorities adopt a more favorable portrayal of Stalin, while dissenters face harsh penalties. The situation sees a resurgence in tactics aimed at silencing critics, reminiscent of the past where labeling dissenters as 'enemies of the people' was common.
Diana Loginova, a music student and frontwoman of the band Stoptime, is caught up in this turbulent environment. Recently charged for organizing a street concert that allegedly obstructed pedestrian flow in St Petersburg, Diana finds herself facing multiple legal charges after spending weeks in jail.
Despite these challenges, Diana and her band continue to perform songs by artists critical of the current regime, drawing crowds of young supporters eager for change. Videos of their performances surface on social media, illustrating the power of music as a form of resistance in a country where expression is increasingly stifled.
As the authorities crack down on young activists, Diana stands as a symbol of bravery among a disheartened population, showing that even in a climate of fear, the spirit of youth and creativity cannot be completely extinguished.
