In his documentary EAST/WEST – SEX & POLITICS, Jochen Hick examines the lives of lesbians and gays in Moscow – from out and proud, internationally connected activists to others try to survive in a hostile environment. “There's real power here, especially in scenes of failed gay-rights marches.” (Variety)

Both in 2006 and 2007, attempts at putting on a Gay Pride Parade event in Moscow were violently suppressed. For many observers, attitudes towards sexual minorities seem to be the litmus paper test of the state of democracy in Russia. The film shows the organizers of the Pride events and the survival strategies of Russian lesbians and gays.