Maxine Peake on Playing Murdered Russian Reporter Anna Politkovskaya in ‘Words of War’ and the Film’s ‘Horrific’ Relevance: ‘2024 Was the Most Dangerous Year to Be a Journalist’

May 02, 2025 – General – 

British actress Maxine Peake stars as the late Russian journalist Anna Politkovskaya in the newly released biographical drama Words of War, directed by James Strong. The film, which premiered on May 2, 2025, coinciding with World Press Freedom Day, offers a poignant portrayal of Politkovskaya’s fearless reporting during the Second Chechen War and her unwavering commitment to exposing human rights abuses under President Vladimir Putin’s regime.

A Tribute to Journalistic Courage

Words of War chronicles Politkovskaya’s journey as a correspondent for Novaya Gazeta, where she reported extensively on the atrocities committed in Chechnya. The narrative delves into her interactions with Chechen civilians and rebels, highlighting her role as a trusted voice amidst the chaos. The film also portrays the personal toll of her work, including strained family relationships and the constant threats to her safety, culminating in her assassination on October 7, 2006.

Cast and Production

Alongside Peake, the film features Jason Isaacs as Politkovskaya’s husband, Alexander Politkovsky, and Ciarán Hinds as Dmitry Muratov, her editor at Novaya Gazeta. The supporting cast includes Naomi Battrick, Harry Lawtey, and Ellie Bamber. The screenplay, penned by Eric Poppen, aims to balance the depiction of Politkovskaya’s professional endeavors with her personal life.

Reception and Legacy

Critics have lauded Words of War for its unflinching portrayal of the dangers faced by journalists in authoritarian regimes. The film serves as a stark reminder of the sacrifices made by those who dare to speak truth to power. As Maxine Peake remarked in an interview, the story of Anna Politkovskaya is not just about one journalist but about the broader struggle for press freedom worldwide.

Availability

Words of War is currently screening in select theaters across the United States and the United Kingdom. For more information on showtimes and locations, viewers can visit.

Refrence – 

https://variety.com/2025/film/global/maxine-peake-anna-politkovskaya-words-of-war-1236383483/

https://www.aol.com/maxine-peake-playing-murdered-russian-102333460.html

https://au.lifestyle.yahoo.com/slain-russian-journalists-sister-film-170227649.html