The opening film was Sanatorium by Irish director Gar O’Rourke, a sensitive story about recovery, human dignity, and community. At its centre is the Kuyalnyk Sanatorium near Odesa, which becomes a metaphor for our society — with its traumas, attempts to heal, and unbreakable desire to live.

Cinema, even in the dark

The screening took place under conditions that have already become a reality for many Ukrainians: without electricity. But no one left; the audience watched the film by the light of torches and phones. That moment, when darkness filled the hall, became symbolic for many.

“Even in the dark, we can stay together and see the light in one another,” said one of the viewers after the screening.

Photo: author Ulyana Matych

Conversation about resources

After the screening, psychologist Hanna Klymenko joined the discussion online. Due to internet interruptions, the communication took place via speakerphone, which only added warmth and a sense of closeness to the conversation.

The psychologist asked the attendees:

“Where do you find strength when exhaustion and anxiety become part of daily life?”

The answers were sincere and varied:
— “In knowledge and education.”
— “In taking walks.”
— “In conversations with my family and friends.”
— “In sports.”
— “In events such as the Docudays UA festival.”

Photo: Telephone conversation with psychologist Hanna Klymenko, author Ulyana Matych

Films about us

“This film is about us. About those who are trying to heal, to support others, and to believe that life goes on,” shared one of the viewers who once stayed at the Kuyalnyk Sanatorium.

“Everything shown in the film is real. I’ve seen it myself,” she added.

Light of humanity

The opening of the Travelling Docudays UA in Zaporizhzhia was more than just a cultural event. It was an expression of resilience, mutual support, and faith that even in the most difficult times, it is important to speak about human rights, memory, and the power of recovery.

Photo: author Ulyana Matych

The 22nd Travelling Docudays UA continues. Each screening, even in the dark, stands as a testament that Ukrainian society keeps living, thinking, creating, and seeing the light.

Author: Larisa Golovko 

The 22nd Travelling Docudays UA is held with the financial support of the European Union, the Embassy of Sweden in Ukraine, and International Media Support. The opinions, conclusions or recommendations do not necessarily correspond to the views of the European Union, the governments or charities of these countries. Responsibility for the content of the publication lies solely on its authors.