The Soviet Union collapse twenty years ago ended communism in Russia. A democracy and president were instated, but these leaders have proved to run what they call a "special democracy," which, according to opposition, is not a democracy at all.

2012 World Cinema Documentary competitor "Putin's Kiss" follows the story of a young Russian women named Mashsa, who, once an avid supporter of the current political system, begins to questions her views when she falls into a group with several liberal journalists.

"Putin's Kiss" is a surprising look into Russian politics and the corruption that occurs in the hands of the top leaders in the country.

Danish filmmaker Lise Birk Pedersen presents her first feature-length film in a relatable, compelling manner that reminds the audience of the personal struggle involved in all politics.

Masha begins her career as an intelligent and hard-working child in Nashi-a group of youths whose sole purpose is to show support for the president, Putin. However, with the severe beating of her liberal journalist friend, Oleg Kashin, Masha begins to understand that the words she has been fed her entire life may be lies.

Masha comes to terms with the reality in the Russian political world and must decide between her humanity and her position in society. Although an engaging personal story, the audience is left hanging at the end, with no solution offered nor end of political corruption in sight. The only disappointment in the film comes from the lack of conclusion, where Masha goes from being a prominent political figure to... well... a nobody.

"Putin's Kiss" is an intimate story that exposes the problems that confront modern-day Russia through the eye of the side less heard, one that the Russian government considers "the enemy." With personal interviews of members of the opposing party, the documentary exposes the real fears of those who are a minority in the government.

Although the end leaves viewers searching for more, "Putin's Kiss" is an informative and engaging documentary that will interest all those who are politically active in today's government bureaucracies.

For more information and tickets to "Putin's Kiss," see: filmguide.sundance.org/film/120088/putins_kiss.