Thursday's screening of Rebellion: The Litvinenko Case was moving and riveting.  The well attended screening at the Varsity had the audience?s full attention throughout the entire film.  At times generating visceral reactions, this film showcased Litvinenko?s reasons for uncovering the corruption in the Russian government and its secret agencies (FSB and KGB).

Through personal interviews, director Andrei Nekrosov (shown right with Thom Powers) was able to paint a picture of the political and economical situation that corrupts Russia today.  He conversed with philosphers, journalists, former and current special agents, Litvinenko's wife Marina and of course, with Litvineko himself.  The main theme throughout the film is that of betrayal. Litvinenko points out that the government's corruption is a form of letting down the nation.  Those who side with the government stand firm with the idea that it was Litvinenko who betrayed his nation.  The film does not offer a happy solution to the situation but it was educational, emotional and very thought provoking.

In the Q&A session after the film, Nekrasov pointed out that his interviews with Alexander Litvinenko were meant for another film. Of course, when it became public that Litvinenko was poisoned in 2006, the film took on a different direction.  When asked about his thoughts on Litvinenko's murder, Nekrasov stated: "Sasha's (Alexander's) murder is more than political... It comes from hatred for an enemy... Personal hatred." The director had become a personal friend of Litvinenko's; thus, it was evident in the film and in the Q&A session that he has very personal reasons for making this documentary.

The conversation continued outside the main lobby of the Varsity theatre.  This film will certainly leave you pensive; wishing to discuss it further.