The Mark of Cain

A somber, quietly absorbing look inside prison walls, where ink and whispered codes carry the weight of a changing society.

Directed by

Alix Lambert

Genres

Documentary, Drama

Overview

The fading art form and ‘language’ of Russian criminal tattoos, formerly a forbidden topic in Russia. The now vanishing practice is seen as reflecting the transition of the broader Russian society. Filmed in some of Russia’s most notorious prisons, including the fabled White Swan, the interviews with prisoners, guards, and criminologists reveal the secret language of “The Zone” and “The Code of Thieves” (Vor v zakone).

How it feels

Dark, bleak, melancholic and tense. Measured and needs your attention.

About

Crime, identity, isolation, power

Content

Mild violence, sexual content and language. No gore.

Note

Written by AI, so it can be wrong. Full breakdown

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