Sean Penn shares his impressions of Zelensky and Putin at the launch of his new film

On the occasion of the launch of his new film "Superpower" about Ukraine's Defence against Russia, Sean Penn has been sharing a filmmaker's insights into the character of Zelensky and Putin. 

Sean Penn with Zelensky. Initially the actor and director had planned to make a film about Zelensky, but following the Russian invasion the scope widened.

PAP/UKRAINIAN PRESIDENTIAL PRESS OFF

Sean Penn's new film "Superpower" had its world premiere on Sunday at the Berlin Film Festival.

As reported in film press, in interviews promoting his new film Sean Penn has studiously avoided using Putin's name, referring to him as "the creepy little bully" or "the war criminal you are referring to".

He also recounted a meeting with Putin 22 years ago. He and Jack Nicholson had first met up with the pro-Putin Russian filmmaker Nikita Mikhalkov before driving to the meeting with Putin. Penn described that Putin's motorcade, which he was also a part of, showed contempt for ordinary Russian villagers when they blocked the way, something that left Penn feeling "dirty".

Asked about Zelensky, Penn said:

“I don’t like a creepy little bully threatening him [Zelensky] and his country,” said Penn. “I do like that there’s no threat that scares Zelensky or the Ukrainians.”

Sources: Screen Daily, PAP

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