Pussy Riot: A Punk Prayer

Courtesy of HBO Documentary Films, Goldcrest Films International, Roast Beef Productions

Following the feminist punk group Pussy Riot, this documentary shows their capture and conviction by the Russian government after a protest in a famed cathedral. Originally produced by Roast Beef Productions, and released on HBO, it has brought worldwide attention to the plight of the three women sent to prison for simply stating truths of their country, a place where freedom of speech is easily stifled.

 Pussy Riot is a band that has grown out of a country's politics that have shifted in the last twenty years. Once led by communist leaders since the Bolshevik Revolution, Russia has tried to distance itself from the atheist, repressive government of the past, which vilified religion's reach. In modern Russia conservatism is enforced highly, and politicized for the benefit of a society that fluctuates between antiquated morality and outright rebellion.

 The documentary follows Nadia, Masha, and Tina, three founding members of the punk collective, and shows the world's response to their imprisonment. Their families are all behind them, especially their fathers who are Communist atheists for the most part. We get to see the response from pop icon Madonna, who supported and gave awareness to their plight while they were in prison. We learn about the politics and corruption of Putin, who the band strongly opposes for many reasons. The women state that while their intentions were not to harm the sensibilities of the Russian people, (undoubtedly tethered in religion, and a nostalgia for the Romanovs' rule) they do not apologize for wanting to spark revolution, incite change, and invoke true rebellion in the hearts of the Russian people.

 Pussy Riot was eventually released via amnesty, and today is trying to advocate for change in the politics of the Russian government and are for ousting Putin. Their plight reminds free peoples of their privilege in having rights, freedom of speech, or at least the illusion of it. It also shows that women, even in repressive environments, have a voice, an identity, and will find the means to celebrate their differences and shame their oppressors.