The Convicted Prince and the Russian Echo: What Brought the 'Kremlin Wizard' to Latvia?
The Latvian government and State Security Service have criticized the film 'Kremlin Wizard' for indirectly supporting Russian propaganda, especially following its association with a convicted tax criminal.
The film 'Kremlin Wizard' has come under scrutiny in Latvia after the Investment and Development Agency of Latvia rejected its funding due to concerns about its role in promoting Russian propaganda. The State Security Service has echoed these sentiments, evaluating the film's production company, 'Forma Pro Films', which has ties to Rami Al Husseini, a convicted tax offender in Finland. This situation raises critical questions about the implications of facilitating projects that may align with the narratives fostered by aggressive foreign states.
During the film's production, significant debates arose regarding the appropriateness of filming a narrative centered on Vladimir Putin's political strategies within Latvia. As the film reaches its public screenings, only a few cinemas in Latvia have chosen to show it, reflecting the contention surrounding its release. The producer from 'Mistrus Media' indicates that the primary audience for the film is Western countries rather than Latvia itself, suggesting that the film’s themes resonate more with international audiences than local viewers.
Producers warn about the risks associated with historical or pseudo-historical films like 'Kremlin Wizard', particularly in how their narratives may align with or support national policies of aggressive states like Russia. As concerns over propaganda become increasingly prevalent, this case highlights the delicate balance between artistic expression and national security, emphasizing the ongoing tension between local cultural industries and foreign political influences.