Words of War is an upcoming biographical film about Russian journalist and human rights activist Anna Politkovskaya.
Directed by James Strong, the film stars Maxine Peake as Politkovskaya, Jason Isaacs as her husband Sascha, and Ciarán Hinds as Dmitry Muratov, her Nobel Peace Prize-winning editor at Novaya Gazeta.
The movie tells the story of Politkovskaya’s fearless reporting on corruption and the war in Chechnya, despite threats, poisoning attempts, and intimidation, which ultimately led to her assassination on October 7, 2006.
Where Was Words of War Filmed?
The production of Words of War took place in Latvia, a country known for its historic architecture and Soviet-era settings that closely resemble Russia’s urban landscapes.
Riga, Latvia
Principal photography for Words of War began in Riga, Latvia, and was scheduled to continue into February 2023. Latvia is home to several abandoned Soviet-era military sites, making it a perfect setting for films that require Cold War-era visuals.
Skrunda-2 (Abandoned Soviet Military Town)
One of the major filming locations was Skrunda-2. One of the most well-known ghost towns, Skrunda-2, a former Soviet military town that once housed 5,000 residents. The entire town was abandoned after Soviet forces withdrew, leaving behind eerie, crumbling buildings that now serve as haunting film locations.
Latvian National Museum of Art, Riga
Riga’s Latvian National Museum of Art is one of the most significant cultural landmarks in Latvia and is also featured in the film. Founded in 1869, the museum houses over 52,000 works of art, showcasing the evolution of Latvian and Baltic art from the mid-18th century to the present.
Its main building, designed by Wilhelm Neumann, was reconstructed between 2010 and 2015 to modernize its infrastructure and expand exhibition spaces. The museum’s grand architecture and historical significance may have contributed to the film’s visual storytelling.
Latvian Academy of Sciences
When Did the Filming of Words of War Take Place?
Filming for Words of War began in early 2023 and was expected to continue until February 2023.
Official Trailer
FAQs-
Q: What is Words of War about?
A: The film follows the life and work of Russian journalist Anna Politkovskaya, who fearlessly reported on corruption and the Chechen conflict despite numerous threats. She continued her work until she was assassinated in 2006.
Q: Who stars in Words of War?
A: The film stars Maxine Peake as Anna Politkovskaya, Jason Isaacs as her husband Sascha, and Ciarán Hinds as her editor, Dmitry Muratov.
Q: Who directed Words of War?
A: James Strong directs the film.
Q: When will Words of War be released?
A: A release date has not yet been announced, but it is expected in 2025.