Chernov’s film tells the story of a team of Ukrainian journalists trapped in the besieged city of Mariupol, who struggle to continue their work documenting the atrocities of Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine. As the only international reporters who remain in the city, they capture what later become defining images of the war: dying children, mass graves, the bombing of a maternity hospital, and more. 20 Days in Mariupol (2023) is Chernov’s first feature film. It draws on his daily news dispatches and offers a harrowing account of civilians caught in the siege. It also tells a compelling story of what it is like to report from a conflict zone and how powerful the impact of such journalism could be. Mykyta Lyskov’s animated short Putler Kaput! (2022) will open the program.

Yuliya V. Ladygina will briefly introduce both films and lead a Q&A session after the screenings.