Russian activists Pussy Riot reach deal for new television series

Russian feminist punk group Pussy Riot have reached a deal for a limited scripted television series, as first reported by Deadline this week.

The band’s founder, Nadya Tolokonikova, made an agreement with STX Entertainment to create a show based around her upcoming memoir.

Previous films made on the feminist collective include the documentaries Pussy Riot: A Punk Prayer and Pussy versus Putin.

The new project is reported to explore Tolokonnikova’s journey from being a young girl in Siberia to a protest artist taking on one of the world’s most powerful men – Vladimir Putin.

The programme is also set to cover Pussy Riot and other women’s actions against the Russian leader in Moscow. The infamous ‘Punk Prayer’ performance saw them receive a two year sentence in a prison colony for “hooliganism motivated by religious hatred.”

 

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“I was a broke 20-year-old artist studying philosophy, he was one of the most powerful, wealthy and dangerous men on Earth,” Tolonnikova said in a statement by STX.

“In 2011 I went against him, damn the consequences. After years of imprisonment, harassment, attacks, trauma I am ready to share this story.”

“My dream is to see my country peaceful, democratic and diverse, where gay people are not being stoned to death. Is it too much to ask? Does it make me an extremist?” she added.

“Today I’m on Russia’s most wanted list, labeled as a foreign agent, and recently was arrested in absentia by Russian court.

“My relatives and friends had been poisoned, my government wants me dead, but I don’t regret anything. If Pussy Riot’s story can inspire a new generation of rebels, it was all not in vain.”

“We are incredibly excited to make a show as courageous and daring as its subject,” said Sophie Watts, former president of STX.

“Nadya’s life is nothing short of extraordinary. A gripping, real-life spy life, filled with heroic, relentless art actions and activism, this series will show how a persevering artistic spirit can change the world.”