The Man Putin Couldn't Kill is a gripping four-part documentary series from BBC Select that explores the life of Russian dissident and former spy Alexander Litvinenko. The series delves into Litvinenko's fall from grace within the Russian security forces, his subsequent decision to speak out against corruption and authoritarianism in his home country, and ultimately his untimely death.
The first episode of the series sets the stage, introducing viewers to Litvinenko and his background as a former KGB agent turned vocal opponent of President Vladimir Putin. We learn about his initial criticisms of the government's handling of the 1999 apartment bombings in Moscow, which he believed were staged by Russian authorities as a pretext for launching the Second Chechen War. Litvinenko was subsequently arrested on charges of abuse of power, but ultimately acquitted.
The second episode delves deeper into Litvinenko's growing disenchantment with Putin's authoritarian government, as he becomes increasingly vocal in his criticisms and warns of the rise of a new KGB-like state. The episode features interviews with Litvinenko's close friends and family members, as well as former colleagues and fellow dissidents who describe his transformation from loyal agent to outspoken critic.
The third episode of the series focuses primarily on Litvinenko's poisoning at a London hotel in 2006, which ultimately led to his death. The episode explores the events leading up to the poisoning, including Litvinenko's meeting with former KGB officer Andrei Lugovoi and his subsequent hospitalization. The investigative efforts of Scotland Yard and British intelligence agencies are also detailed, as they sought to identify the individuals responsible for the assassination.
The final episode of the series examines the fallout from Litvinenko's death and its impact on Russian-British relations, as well as the ongoing struggle for political freedom and human rights in modern Russia. The episode features interviews with government officials, journalists, and human rights activists, as well as footage from protests and political rallies.
Overall, The Man Putin Couldn't Kill is a thorough and thought-provoking series that sheds light on the complex political landscape of modern Russia and the challenges faced by those who dare to speak out against the government. The series is well-researched and carefully crafted, with a strong narrative that keeps viewers engaged from start to finish. It is definitely a must-watch for anyone interested in international politics, human rights, and the fight for freedom and democracy around the world.
The Man Putin Couldn't Kill is a series that ran for 1 seasons (1 episodes) between September 14, 2021 and on BBC Select
