Campaign of Hate: Russia and Gay Propaganda

One of the more troubling news stories surrounding this year's Winter Olympics in Sochi centered on the status of gays and lesbians in Russia. Homosexuality was not tolerated during the Soviet era, but the post–Cold War years witnessed an even greater hostility toward gays, as political and religious factions sought to scapegoat the demographic through media attacks, legislation, and an environment that encouraged violent assaults on LGBT Russians. This documentary presents a series of interviews with Russian men and women who openly identify their sexual orientation, despite rejection by their families, discrimination, and increased threats. Some downplay their lifestyle, while others—most notably, the organizers of an LGBT film festival—attempt to force a conversation with a wider population that views homosexuality as a Western perversion. Also appearing is a Russian parliamentarian who crafted the so-called “gay propaganda” legislation that created international furor. But the real surprise here is that Campaign of Hate is a mature and intelligent documentary from Michael Lucas, a filmmaker notorious for directing gay porno flicks. The Russian-born Lucas appears on camera to conduct interviews with his non-English-speaking subjects—a task he handles with the professionalism of a seasoned journalist. Disturbing yet compelling, Campaign of Hate is a must-see for anyone interested in today's Russia, where the threat to LGBT individuals is very real. Highly recommended. Aud: C, P. (P. Hall)