Tonislav Hristov: Rock Band Doc & Fake News in ‘Truth or Dare’

Filmmaker Tonislav Hristov has carved a niche for himself in the documentary world, known for his incisive observational style and ability to tackle complex societal issues. His upcoming projects continue this trend, offering audiences a unique look into the enduring legacy of Finnish rock band The Rasmus, while simultaneously confronting the pervasive challenge of pre-election fake news in his film ‘Truth or Dare.’ Hristov’s work, which often bridges the cultural landscapes of Bulgaria and Finland, consistently underscores a profound belief in the tangible impact of information, both authentic and fabricated, on individual lives and democratic processes, affirming his conviction that ‘It Affects Your Life.’

Tonislav Hristov’s Lens: From Rock Anthems to Societal Truths

Tonislav Hristov’s filmography is marked by its breadth and depth, from the intimate character studies seen in “The Magic Life of V” to the geopolitical observations in “The Good Postman.” His unique position, operating between two distinct cultures, allows him an “outsider-ish status” that he admits is “comfortable,” enabling him to “stand on the viewer’s side” when approaching a subject.

Capturing The Rasmus: A Deep Dive into a Rock Legacy

Currently, Hristov is developing a music documentary centered on the iconic Finnish rock band The Rasmus, widely recognized for their global hit “In the Shadows.” The project aims to provide an in-depth narrative of the band’s journey, exploring their evolution, successes, and challenges over time. Hristov has been following the band for a considerable period, indicating a long-term commitment to capturing their authentic story. He notes that musicians often strive to maintain a certain image in documentaries, a desire he understands. However, having established a rapport, Hristov anticipates that the members of The Rasmus will be “honest about their feelings,” a trait he associates with Finnish culture.

‘Truth or Dare’: Unmasking Pre-Election Fake News

Parallel to his music documentary, Hristov’s film ‘Truth or Dare’ delves into the critical issue of pre-election fake news and its profound societal consequences. This documentary emerged from Hristov’s earlier encounters with individuals involved in spreading misinformation, particularly around the 2020 U.S. presidential election. He recounts interviewing “Macedonian guys” in their twenties who profited significantly by creating and disseminating fake news for a U.S. political party, a lucrative endeavor that ceased abruptly once the election concluded.

The Tangible Impact of Disinformation: Why “It Affects Your Life”

Hristov emphasizes that the spread of fake news is far from a harmless phenomenon, asserting that “it affects your life.” He argues against the notion that such misinformation is inconsequential, especially when those propagating it may harbor anti-democratic sentiments. Having lived through communism, Hristov deeply appreciates the difference a democratic system makes.

The Bulgarian Context

In Bulgaria, the impact of fake news on voter behavior has been particularly noticeable. Hristov observes a direct correlation between misinformation and reduced voting turnout. The rise of “anti-vaccine and pro-Russia” figures in parliament, he suggests, is a tangible outcome of successful disinformation campaigns that ultimately influence citizens’ lives. His research indicates that a significant majority of Bulgarians now rely on online sources for information, with over 60% believing this information to be true. This shift creates a challenge for traditional journalists, as many citizens no longer consume news through conventional channels.

The Mechanics of Misinformation

The documentary explores the sophisticated tactics employed in generating and spreading fake news. Hristov points to reports, including those by the BBC, detailing how North Macedonia became a hub for fake news targeting U.S. readers. One strategy involves crafting “outrageous” lies that, counterintuitively, are less likely to be questioned. He references the “Save the Children” conspiracy theory, where seemingly unbelievable claims about family and children are used to gradually build a narrative. Hristov explains that political entities exploit these divisions to secure electoral victories.

Contrasting Perspectives: The Journalist and the Content Creator

‘Truth or Dare,’ screened at the Ji.hlava International Film Festival, follows two contrasting figures: Genka Shikerova, an experienced journalist facing scrutiny, and Ivan, a content creator who disseminates misinformation through his growing online platforms. Hristov notes a distinction between Ivan and the opportunistic Macedonian fake news writers; Ivan genuinely believes in the “discoveries” he shares, though he also enjoys the attention. Hristov characterizes Ivan as childlike in his conviction, suggesting that Ivan only realizes he’s been exploited by political parties “after the elections,” when he is no longer useful.

Navigating the Digital Landscape: Education as the Antidote

For Hristov, the battle against misinformation is deeply personal. As a father of two, he actively tries to moderate his children’s digital access. However, he observes that often it is “older generations who cannot distinguish what’s true and what’s fake.”

Generational Vulnerability and Media Literacy

The financial incentives behind spreading fake news are significant, with substantial funds channeled to platforms like Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) during elections because they effectively reach and manipulate target audiences. Hristov highlights the stark reality that traditional journalists like Genka Shikerova struggle to reach these audiences, who instead follow figures like Ivan—a construction worker who, at some point, began believing in a grand conspiracy.

The Future of Information: Challenges and Solutions

Hristov touches upon the challenges posed by social media platforms, citing Meta’s decision to shift from fact-checking to a “community notes” program, suggesting a reluctance to take responsibility for content moderation to avoid losing users. Despite these challenges, Hristov firmly believes in education as the paramount solution. He recounts a powerful scene from his film where Genka teaches children the importance of distinguishing truth from falsehood online, emphasizing that the internet, while vast, requires critical discernment. His message is clear: “It’s important to teach our kids – and our parents – that not everything online is true. And if you’re not sure about something, check it. That’s the only solution to the problems we have.”

Tonislav Hristov’s work, whether exploring the journey of a rock band or the insidious spread of fake news, consistently highlights the narratives that shape our understanding of the world. Through his unique blend of cultural perspective and critical inquiry, Hristov encourages audiences to engage more deeply with the information they consume, advocating for a well-informed populace capable of discerning truth from manipulation. His efforts underscore the vital role of critical thinking and media literacy in maintaining a healthy, functioning society.