About
Welcome to Chechnya is a landmark documentary exposing the state-sponsored persecution of LGBTQ people in the Russian republic of Chechnya. As Executive Producer, Neal Baer helped guide a film that pushes the boundaries of investigative storytelling, combining vérité reporting with groundbreaking visual-effects technology to protect the identities of survivors. The result is a searing account of activists risking their lives to rescue victims of violence and disappearance. The film’s fusion of cinematic craft and human-rights advocacy exemplifies Baer’s commitment to storytelling as a tool for justice, amplifying global awareness of atrocities that would otherwise remain hidden.
Awards
Sundance Film Festival, Special Jury Award & World Premiere (2020)
Berlinale, Teddy Activist Award (2020)
Berlinale, Audience Award for Best Documentary (2020)
Academy Awards, Shortlisted for Best Documentary Feature (2021)
Academy Awards, Shortlisted for Best Visual Effects (2021)
GLAAD Media Award, Nominee for Best Documentary (2021)
George Foster Peabody Award (2021)
Emmy Nomination, Exemplary Documentary Filmmaking (2021)
Awards
George Foster Peabody Award (1995) – for Excellence in Broadcasting, as Writer
Public Service Award, National Kidney Foundation (1995) – for “The Gift” episode
People’s Choice Awards (1995–2000) – Favorite Dramatic Series / Favorite New Series
Golden Globe Nominations (1996–2000) – Best Dramatic Series
Emmy Award Nominations (1996–2001) – Outstanding Drama Series and Outstanding Writing
Gracie Award (1996) – for “Calling Dr. Hathaway”
Nancy Susan Reynolds Award (1997) – for HIV storyline
GLAAD Award Nomination (1999) – for “Stuck on You”
Literacy in Media Awards (1999, 2000, 2001) – for “Middle of Nowhere,” “Loose Ends,” and “Rescue Me”
Freddie Award (2000) – Outstanding Medical Show on Patient Care
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