Ukrainian Film Days in Riga: Free Screenings of Films Made During the War
Ukrainian Cinema Takes Center Stage in Riga
Riga, Latvia – Get ready for a cinematic journey to Ukraine! From December 20th to 22nd, Riga will host the Ukrainian Film Days, showcasing a selection of captivating films that offer a glimpse into Ukrainian culture and artistry.Organized by the Ukrainian Embassy in Latvia, the festival coincides with the christmas season, International film Day, and the 100th anniversary of renowned Ukrainian filmmaker Sergei Parajanov.
“This event highlights the importance of cultural diplomacy in strengthening ties between Ukraine and Latvia,” said Ukrainian Ambassador to Latvia Anatoliy Kucevols, who will deliver a speech at the opening ceremony.
The festivities kick off on December 20th at 6:00 PM with an opening ceremony at the K.Suns cinema, followed by a screening of director Oleksandr Nazarov’s documentary ”Schedryk Against the ‘Russian world'” at 6:30 PM.A discussion with the audience will follow the film.
On december 21st,film enthusiasts can delve into the history of Ukrainian cinema with Almar and Ludmila Serebrennikov’s “The Birth of Ukrainian Cinema” at the Riga Film Museum at 2:00 PM. Later that day, at 5:00 PM, K.Suns cinema will screen Taras Tomenko’s documentary “Sentimental Journey to Parajanov’s Planet,” a tribute to the iconic filmmaker.
The festival concludes on December 22nd with a double feature at K.Suns cinema. At 4:00 PM, audiences can enjoy Olesya Morhun-Isayenko’s feature film “Schedryk,” followed by Oleksandr Berezan’s “Taste of Freedom” at 7:00 PM.
All films will be screened in Ukrainian with Latvian subtitles, and admission is free.
This is a unique prospect to experience the richness and diversity of Ukrainian cinema while celebrating the enduring bond between Ukraine and Latvia.
A Conversation With Anatoliy Kucevols: Ukrainian Cinema Takes Centre Stage in Riga
NewsDirect3 sat down with Anatoliy Kucevols, Ukrainian ambassador to Latvia, to discuss the upcoming Ukrainian Film Days in Riga.
NewsDirect3: Ambassador Kucevols,thank you for taking the time to speak with us.The Ukrainian Film Days sound like a engaging event.What motivated the Ukrainian Embassy to organize this festival?
Anatoliy Kucevols: This event is about so much more than just films. It’s a party of Ukrainian culture and artistry, and it highlights the importance of cultural diplomacy in strengthening the bond between Latvia and Ukraine.
NewsDirect3: The festival coincides with several notable events: the Christmas season, International Film Day, and the 100th anniversary of Sergei Parajanov. How does the festival reflect these occasions?
Anatoliy Kucevols: We aimed to create a program that resonates with these significant dates.The screenings of “Schedryk Against the ‘Russian world'” and “sentimental Journey to Parajanov’s Planet” offer insightful perspectives on Ukrainian identity and resilience in times of conflict. “The Birth of Ukrainian cinema” provides past context,while the feature film “Schedryk” and “Taste of Freedom” showcase contemporary Ukrainian storytelling. We believe these films offer a potent and multifaceted depiction of Ukraine’s rich cultural landscape.
NewsDirect3: What message do you hope audiences in riga will take away from the Ukrainian Film Days?
Anatoliy Kucevols: We want audiences to connect with Ukrainian culture on a visceral level. We invite them to experience the beauty, diversity, and strength of Ukrainian cinema. through these films, we hope to foster understanding, empathy, and a deeper thankfulness for the Ukrainian people and their spirit.
NewsDirect3: Thank you for sharing your insights with us, Ambassador Kucevols.We look forward to a successful and compelling Ukrainian Film Days in Riga.