Boris reminds me of Emperor Commodus in Gladiator. Just after Maximus reveals his identity in the Coliseum, Commodus wants to execute him. The crowd chants "Live, live ..." and Commodus feels compelled to give the thumbs up. The despotic emperor, desperate to do what he wants, but forced to do the opposite because he's even more desperate for the love of the common people. What a sorry excuse for a leader.