Jury Motivation by Ema Konstantinova

This film is important for many reasons. It speaks of the devastating consequences of war; of the terrible and irreparable losses it causes. It is a memory of the works of folk art, carefully preserved and passed down from generation to generation. It is a story of people determined to protect their cultural heritage and identity. It is also a film about hope and faith in a better future. A film that moves us deeply and unsettles the comfort of those who think war is far away.

Synopsis

One of the most alarming aspects of war is the destruction of cultural heritage and museums. Any war carries with it a terrible destructive force, but when culture is destroyed, the heart of a nation is destroyed. Museums not only preserve the values of the past but also serve as a place where generations can understand the importance of art and culture for our world. People working in museums are often unnoticed, and no one knows the important work they do to protect and preserve culture during war. It is these people who do everything to preserve our culture and heritage.

At the center of this story is the museum in Ivankiv, Kyiv region, which became a target of military actions and was hit by a rocket on the second day of the full-scale invasion. It housed a collection of works by Ukrainian artists Maria Prymachenko, Hanna Verez, and other works of decorative and fine arts. Most of the exhibition was destroyed by fire. However, amidst this horror, the extraordinary dedication of the people working in the museum comes to the fore. The incredible power of human will, dedication to culture and art, regardless of anything.

The main characters are the museum caretaker, Koryenna Halyna Mykolaivna, and the head of the culture department, Biryuk Nadiya Konstantynivna. These people have devoted their entire lives to the culture and history of their region.