Film Screenings – Three years after the full-scale invasion of Ukraine 

24 February marks three years since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, a moment to reflect on its profound impact. We invite you to two special film screenings on 21 February, hosted by DutchCulture, the European Cultural Foundation, and IDFA. Through two* powerful documentaries, we explore the resilience of Ukraine’s people and cultural sectors in the face of war.

*Please note: the programme of European Cultural Foundation and IDFA is a public event. If you would like to attend this programme as well, click this link to purchase tickets.

Programme
16:30 - 17:00 Welcome in the foyer
17:00 - 18:30 Screening: Despite all, we work (2024) – Hosted by DutchCulture

This documentary by Cem Altınöz, created in collaboration with DutchCulture and filmed during a five-day visit to the Netherlands, shares the stories of regional museum workers in Ukraine. In the face of immense challenges, they have redefined their roles, demonstrating the impact of international solidarity. The film highlights how strength and resilience have become the cornerstone of the identity Ukrainians strive to protect. Along the way, we get a sneak peek into the passionate, sincere, and sometimes humorous conversations between Ukrainian and Dutch museum professionals as they visit museums across the Netherlands, from Enschede to Den Bosch.

Followed by a discussion with those involved in the visitor program featured in the documentary: Kateryna Chuyeva (online) - independent museum expert and former vice-minister of culture of Ukraine from 2021-202, Cem Altınöz, filmmaker, Arnoud Odding - researcher and strategic advisor for museums, Tijana Stepanovic - advisor Central and Eastern Europe at DutchCulture.

18:30 - 19:30 Informal networking with drinks & bites

19:30 - 21:30 Screening: Songs of Slow Burning Earth (2024) – Hosted by European Cultural Foundation (ECF) and IDFA*

Over two years, across locations near and far from the frontline, director Olha Zhurba collected footage for this powerful and deeply personal audiovisual record of the war in Ukraine. A striking combination of personal narrative and metaphysical reflection, this film captures the raw and haunting reality of a country in conflict.

Followed by a Q&A with director Olha Zhurba, who is present online.

Join us in reflecting on the ongoing war, the resilience of those affected, and ways to act in solidarity.