Russian Pomp and Circumstance

One can forgive any nation a bit of pomposity and ceremony when changing their head of state (some would argue that, in the case of Russia, this isn’t really the case), but in the global age of television and YouTube the coverage of Dimtry Medvedev’s inauguration as President is quite remarkable. Don’t watch the whole 52-minute video, but if you observe excerpts there are some notable characteristics.

Firstly, despite seemingly having cameras hanging from every balcony available, the editors of the ‘production’ – considering its scale and probable cost, its suitable to call them that – feel the need to use computer graphics! With the splendour of the Kremlin and central Moscow around them, there is a zooming in shot from the exterior, entirely digitised which then materialises to a follow-on (real) shot of the indoor ceremony. Even on YouTube this is obvious enough, though I first noticed it on News 24 – the video being syndicated worldwide. It is extraordinary considering the surroundings that the producers felt the need to include computer images. Although it isn’t the first time Russian state television has been caught fabricating footage, at least in the inauguration’s case they didn’t just borrow it from a Hollywood film…

Next, there is the walking down the ‘aisle of victory’, as I’ve decided to call it – its around the 36 minute mark. After Medvedev’s speech, he walks back down the aisle, applauded by the dignitaries. The camera follows with him, walking forward to the exit. However, the camera also walks in front of him, pointing towards the exit, moving forward… in other words you see all the Russian elite looking at the camera and clapping as it goes past…it’s as if you are the new Russian President! It’s from Medvedev’s view, that’s the point! Somehow this surreal experience manages to be both amusing, consuming and leads you to conclude that we should extend the format. Why not have a camera just behind Gordon Brown’s head during PMQ’s, and then you too can look into David Cameron’s sardonic eyes and confident smile. Feel the brewing disdain which the PM does. It could be a bit like the camerawork on Peep Show, although it might well be more amusing (that’s a bit of an unpopular opinion I know). All brought to you from a politicians-eye view of the situation – well it would be one way to get the public in touch with their leaders.