Channel 4 has commissioned a new documentary that follows a group of remarkable and courageous women in their quest to locate their sons, husbands, and brothers who have disappeared amid Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
With exclusive and intimate access, “Russia’s Lost Sons” (1×60’, working title) embarks on a profoundly emotional journey. Filmed over the span of a year by a team of independent Russian filmmakers, it documents the women’s persistent efforts to obtain official assistance in finding their loved ones from largely unresponsive government agencies. Simultaneously, they tirelessly scour morgues and social media posts for updates and ultimately come together to support one another.
The documentary also showcases men striving to document the authentic Russian casualty count, visiting cemeteries to meticulously record the graves. It includes interviews with fervent Putin supporters who perceive the invasion as an inevitable stride towards expanding and safeguarding Russia’s “greatness.”
Evan Williams, executive producer says: “Working together with independent Russian filmmakers, over the course of a year filming with extreme care and sensitivity, Russia’s Lost Sons (w/t) is able to provide a unique, personal portrait of ordinary, but very brave, Russians who in their own way are also victims of Putin’s war.”
“Russia’s Lost Sons” (working title) is a production by Evan Williams Productions, in collaboration with filmmakers from the Russian independent media venture ROMB, for Channel 4. The director and executive producer is Evan Williams, and the film was commissioned by Nevine Mabro.
