Yuri Andropov (2004)

Andrey Konchalovsky's "Burden of Power" explores the often-unpopular choices made by leaders. The figures in this series aren't champions of liberal ideals, yet they profoundly shaped their nations' destinies. Konchalovsky states he's drawn to documentaries for their directness, allowing him to express his thoughts firsthand and take full responsibility. He's particularly interested in the interplay between power and culture, arguing that those in positions of authority are often reduced to stereotypes, obscuring their actual impact on a country's life.