On December 7, the Travelling Docudays UA began in the village of Kompaniivka in Kirovohrad region – and here are some impressions from the first day of screenings. 

Documentary enthusiasts gathered early in the morning for the online launch of the 20th Travelling Docudays UA, tuning in to the film Waking Up in Silence directed by Mila Zhluktenko and Daniel Asadi Faezi. Following the screening, the audience discussed the film with festival coordinators Liudmyla Shestakova (NGO Flora), Inha Dudnik (NGO Territory of Success), and Olena Mirkhaidarova (NGO Successful Interaction).

This year’s theme, Image of the Future, held significant importance for the audience. Documentary films help us pose challenging questions and prompt reflection on the future we want for our families, communities, and the country. The emphasis on human rights underscored that state development hinges on their observance and promoting legal culture in society.

Travelling Docudays UA in Kirovohrad region during an online screening

Later that day, residents of Kompaniivka gathered at the Central Public Library to watch the film Three Women and engage in a discussion with the director, Maksym Melnyk.

Liudmyla, one of the viewers, shared her thoughts after the screening: “The film is very authentic and touching. I saw reflections of myself and my rural life. Although the film’s characters live in a place with mountains while we have steppes – without subtitles, I wouldn’t have understood their language. Yet, these people feel very close to me because our lives are similar.”

The attendees were happy to meet the film’s director Maksym Melnyk, who joined the meeting online. The communication was sincere and relaxed; the audience shared their impressions, inquired about the fate of the protagonists, discussed the filmmaking process, learned about the film’s inspiration, and got insights into the character selection. Attendees also asked Maksym Melnyk about his future plans, wished him success and inspiration, and thanked him for the wonderful film.

 A still from Ptitsa

In the evening, another online screening featured Ptitsa, directed by Alina Maksimenko. The film is touching and encourages us to reflect on our lives: do we know how to provide support to others in times of grief, and what helps us in navigating through bitter and challenging periods? Some viewers emphasized the significance of learning to build relationships based on trust and respecting human rights.

As the eventful first day of the Travelling Docudays UA concludes, seven more days await with film screenings, discussions, debates, and intriguing meetings. Stay updated on the events in Kirovohrad region by following our Facebook page.

Author: Olena Mirkhaidarova, regional coordinator of the Travelling Docudays UA in Kirovohrad region

Main photo: A still from Three Women.

The 20th Travelling Docudays UA is supported by the Embassy of Sweden in Ukraine, the Embassy of Switzerland in Ukraine, and the US Embassy in Ukraine. Opinions, conclusions, or recommendations do not necessarily reflect the views of the governments, charities, or companies of these countries. The content of this publication is the sole responsibility of its authors.