Directed by Oleh Malamuzh and Oleksandra Ruban, Mavka: The Forest Song (2023) is a stunning computer-animated fantasy filled with lively music, bright colors, and pure magic. Loosely based on Lesia Ukrainka’s 1911 poetic play, The Forest Song, the film follows the story of a forest spirit, Mavka, who must choose between love and duty to protect the Heart of the Forest from
rapacious intruders led by Kylyna, a steampunk-esque woman from the city. Mavka is one of the biggest productions ever to come out of the Ukrainian film industry, and it has been a huge hit among Ukrainians. While geared mostly toward young audiences, the film also offers subtle commentaries on current events in Ukraine. An allegory on Russia’s attack on Ukraine embedded in Mavka’s story of courage and resilience is hard to miss. The film is dubbed in English.