Cinema as Resistance
The film presents a unique blend of narrative and documentary filmmaking techniques, aiming to capture the essence of a human story within the context of war. It takes viewers on a gripping journey through the psychological frontlines of the crisis, exploring how Ukrainian artists navigate their daily lives amidst the constant threat of air raids and missile strikes. Through live music performances, painting, street art, and the act of filmmaking itself, the artists defy aggression and shed light on the complexities of their existence.
Gutnik’s decision to create this film stemmed from a desire to document the stories of Ukrainians who stayed in their homeland amid the war. His initial intention was to make a documentary about those who, like his own family, left Ukraine. However, upon crossing the border and witnessing the resilience of those who stayed, he felt compelled to capture their narratives instead.
[Lyana Mytsko, as seen in RULE OF TWO WALLS, directed by David Gutnik]
He reflects on the initial predictions and misjudgments made by major news outlets and governments during the war. The belief that Kyiv would fall within days proved to be inaccurate, raising questions about the flawed data and the inability to understand the Ukrainian perspective. The director poses a crucial inquiry: what critical factors were overlooked by those in power, leading to their faulty assessments? Gutnik's film seeks to shed light on the human truths behind the conflict and challenge the mainstream narratives that often fail to capture the full extent of the situation.
The film intertwines factual truth and Ukrainian identity, emphasizing the power of cinema in asserting existence. Gutnik highlights a striking scene in the film where a Ukrainian cameraman risks his life to document the aftermath of a missile strike, standing firm amidst the ongoing shelling. This act becomes a testament to the significance of cinema as a medium to affirm one's identity and counter attempts to erase it. The film uses a mix of narrative and documentary techniques to capture the multidimensional aspects of the war and the human experiences within it.
Moreover, the executive producer of the film, in collaboration with BlueCheck Ukraine and UNITED24, actively supports critical humanitarian work in Ukraine. A portion of the film's returns will be dedicated to this cause, underscoring the commitment to raising awareness about the war and assisting those affected by it. Whether you have a chance to see it tonight, or bookmark it for a later time, the film is a must see. In simplest terms, Gutnik presents a human story that transcends the confines of the conflict.
