Episode 35

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Published on:

4th Sep 2025

Democracy Noir - Director Connie Field

Amidst the brazen rise of 21st century authoritarianism, few politicians have proven as corrupt and adept at undermining democracy as Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán. A hero to his country’s Christian conservative population and a role model to the right-wing political movement in Europe and to Donald Trump and the Republicans in United States - Orbán takes carefully crafted, methodical steps to chip away at Hungarian democratic institutions while maintaining popularity with a majority of citizens. With chilling detail, Democracy Noir follows three courageous women - opposition politician Timea, journalist Babett, and nurse Nikoletta (Niko) - who fight relentlessly to expose the lies and corruption embedded in Orbán's government. And Maria Antalne Deak - (Nikoletta’s mom). But amid this dark, new form of authoritarianism, there is still vital resistance. Through the testimonies and actions of Timea, Babett and Niko, we see first-hand what it takes to try and win back democracy and precious freedoms. Director Connie Field joins us for a conversation on the crippling impact that Orban's rule is having on Hungary, the European Union and the the future of Western -style democracy.

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About the Podcast

Cinemafile
Cinemafile showcases the very best in independent, documentary and foreign films through our conversations with the more than 2,000 filmmakers who made them. Through Cinemafile we will do our best to bring the most interesting and accomplished filmmakers from around the world to your attention.

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Michael Kaspar

Mike Kaspar is a life-long film fan who has worked as a projectionist at an art house theatre, college radio station general manager as well as a radio show host and producer for over 18 years.