Posted on by mikhailusa

Putin, Russia, and Power: A Review of the BBC’s Four-Part Series

The BBC’s four-part documentary Putin, Russia, and the West, produced by Norma Percy and directed by Paul Mitchell, offers a chilling and essential look at Russia’s transformation in the post-Soviet era. Framed by the tagline “How the great Soviet superpower, crushed and humiliated, has been resurrected in the form of Vladimir Putin’s new Russia,” the series explores the consolidation of power, the rise of Putin, and the global ripple effects of the Kremlin’s strategic ambitions.

Without relying heavily on Putin’s own voice, the documentary constructs its narrative through testimonies from high-ranking diplomats, political leaders, and insiders—painting a revealing picture of control, confrontation, and calculated resilience.

The Guardian praised the series as “compulsive viewing for all those who want to know what went on inside Russia for the last decade.” I couldn’t agree more. It’s a masterclass in storytelling and international politics.

At the time of airing, Putin was preparing for a possible third presidential term. The series raises haunting questions: Can democratic forces truly take root in Russia, or will the old rule of the Kremlin continue to dominate?

Episode Overview

Part 1: “Taking Control”
First Broadcast: Jan 19, 2012
Putin’s rise to power and his early warnings about Pakistan, Afghanistan, and the Taliban.

Part 2: “Democracy Threatens”
First Broadcast: Jan 26, 2012
Leonid Kuchma discusses the 2004 Ukrainian election and Putin’s influence on outcomes beyond Russia’s borders.

Part 3: “War”
First Broadcast: Feb 2, 2012
An inside look at the 2008 conflict between Russia and Georgia.

Part 4: “New Start”
First Broadcast: Feb 9, 2012
Explores the Obama administration’s attempt to reset U.S.–Russia relations.

This series is more than just history—it’s a window into the long game of power, image, and ideology. If you’re interested in political storytelling, Russian history, or global affairs, make time to watch this one.

Featured Image Suggestion:
A muted-toned photo collage or split-screen design featuring:

  • Vladimir Putin (serious expression)
  • The Kremlin in the background
  • A subtle BBC logo or screenshot of the documentary title
  • Optional overlay text: Inside the Kremlin: Putin, Power, and the West

🔗 Watch the Full Series

You can find Putin, Russia and the West available on select streaming platforms such as BBC Select or YouTube. Search for the episode titles or the full documentary series to begin viewing.

💬 Join the Conversation

What are your thoughts after watching?
Do you see parallels in today’s global power dynamics?
Share your reflections in the comments or connect with me directly — I’d love to hear your take.