In Kyiv, from February 23rd to 25th, the first national documentary film festival "Cinema for Victory" will take place in Ukraine, featuring films about the Russian-Ukrainian war. The festival is initiated with the support of the President of Ukraine on the occasion of the tenth anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukrainian territory and the second anniversary of the start of full-scale war.
The Ministry of Culture and Information Policy announced this initiative, stating,
"War documentary cinema bears witness to the active resistance of Ukrainians, the heroism of defenders, and the unprecedented unity of Ukrainian society in confronting the enemy. The dissemination of documentary films created during the war is a counter to the propaganda of Russian invaders on Ukrainian territory and worldwide, as well as a powerful argument for the international audience in advocating for Ukraine."
According to the organizers, the film festival serves as a platform for informational resistance to Russian aggression, a space for the development of wartime content, the consolidation of efforts, and the exchange of experience for the film community, strengthening cooperation between civilians and the military. Its main objectives include maintaining attention to the war in Ukraine, documenting Russia's crimes against Ukrainians, honoring documentarians who demonstrate the necessity of strong and sustained support for Ukraine from international partners.
Additionally, the Cinema for Victory festival aims to popularize and support talented filmmakers among the general public, showcasing their creative individuality and potential, and creating opportunities for the exchange of experience and achievements.
Until February 22nd, Cinema for Victory is accepting submissions for the competitive programme, and from February 23rd to 25th, the official part of the National Film Festival will take place. This year, the festival will focus on films documenting war crimes committed by Russians, capturing testimonies of war through real stories of Ukrainians.
