Words of War: Refusing to Silence Press Freedom (Part 1)

MediaMaker Spotlight

MediaMaker Spotlight
Words of War: Refusing to Silence Press Freedom (Part 1)
Apr 27, 2025 Episode 97
Women in Film and Video (DC)

In this first episode of a special two-part series, host Sandra Abrams chats with Mark Maxey, WIFV board member and producer of a new geo-political thriller, WORDS OF WAR. The film tells the story of Russian-American journalist, Anna Politkovskaya, who was assassinated on October 7, 2006 for uncovering the truth about the Chechen War. The film opens in theaters on May 2, the day before United Nations’ World Press Freedom Day. The all-star cast includes Maxine Peake as Anna, Ciaran Hinds as her editor, Dmitry, and Jason Isaacs as her husband, Sasha. Oscar-winner Sean Penn and Congressman Eric Swalwell (D-CA) serve as executive producers. In their conversation, Mark shares why this film is so timely to what is happening today when the world seeks to hold the powerful accountable for crimes against humanity. He also gives insight into how Sean Penn joined the film as executive producer. 

Part two will feature lead actress, Maxine Peake and will be released on May 11th. 

To learn more about Words of War, visit: https://www.rollingpictures.com/
You can watch the film’s trailer here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pui6KMbHECM

#WordsOfWar
#WorldPressFreedomDay

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