Paul Klebnikov

"Conquered Chechnya is the cornerstone of Putin's power. It all started there. If we admit that the leader of conquered Chechnya is a scoundrel, what will remain of Putin himself?" This is how one Russian official responded when asked about the untouchability of Ramzan Kadyrov, who has created a true sultanate within Russia, operating beyond the reach of Russian law. This documentary is a historical investigation into the blood-soaked path Kadyrov has taken to build his sultanate. It uncovers new evidence of murders surrounding Kadyrov, large-scale corruption of unimaginable proportions, and equally shocking details of his personal life, including a harem with underage concubines and brutal punishments.

Early short film from Larry Fessenden.