CNN‘s “Navalny,” a historical documentary focused on a Russian native, Alexei Navalny, who dubs as a former presidential aspirant, took home the win for documentary feature film at the Oscars.
“Navalny” shows viewers the complexities of the Russian government, centering on the assassination of Alexei Navalny, who vied for the seat of the presidency.
There was an assassination attempt on his life In 2020. CNN’s “Navalny” captures how a yet-to-be-determined suspect nearly died from lethal poison.
Fortunately, he was transferred from a Russian medical facility to Germany. They saw how threatened his stay in Russia had become.
But also, Navalny’s protection was crucial to keep proof of the poisoning in his system, as the opposition party believed the eternal president, Vladimir Putin was to blame.
Putin always refuted the allegations and resorted to not mentioning Navalny’s name during interviews. However, it was clear the opposition was threatened under his administration.
While away, Navalny lived a more secretive lifestyle, despite being a public figure. He understood that the more publicity, the higher the risk to his life.
But in 2021, he returned home, after discovering unbelievable information about his attempted assassination.
The Academy recognized the sensational documentary, earning CNN “Navalny” an Oscar, which is also a first for the network.
"CNN has scored its first Oscars win: 'Navalny,' the harrowing film following Russian dissident and former presidential candidate Alexei Navalny, took the prize for documentary feature film at Sunday’s Academy Awards." https://t.co/9KT7165cFq
— Geoff Pilkington (@geoffpilkington) March 13, 2023
CNN Wins First Oscar With “Navalny”
Under the documentary feature film nomination category, CNN’s “Navalny” emerged victorious, winning its first Oscar award.
This Navalny-based film directed by Daniel Roher came to the forefront following the Russia-Ukraine war. While accepting the award, the director honored Nalvany.
Unfortunately, Navalny is currently serving a nine-year sentence in a Russian gulag. Roher maintained loyalty in his message, adding:
“We must not be afraid to oppose dictators and authoritarianism wherever it rears its head.”
Next to Roher was Yulia Navalnaya, Navalny’s wife who seemed undefeated in the face of adversity. She claimed her husband was wrongfully imprisoned.
Navalnaya ended her soul-stirring message with a glimpse of hope. She said:
“Alexei, I am dreaming of the day when you will be free and our country will be free. Stay strong, my love.”
CNN’s “Navalny” has received outstanding remarks from critics. Owen Gleiberman described it as a must-watch doc possessing an encapsulating story.
This seems to be the ongoing narrative, as “Navalny” has bagged a BAFTA and Producers Guild Awards prizes for best documentary.