Project Detail

Children

Synopsis

Not just a film about war or emigration, but a story about a generation growing up between two worlds, learning to find its place in a new reality while holding on to its roots. It is also a story of a mother’s love - steadfast, nurturing and unwavering - as she stands by her child through uncertainty, offering reassurance, strength and a sense of belonging wherever they go.
The sequel to the documentary film WOMEN delves into the lives of Ukrainian children who fled their homeland with their mothers because of the war. Three years have passed since they began adapting to life in the UK. How has the war changed them? What have they lost and what have they gained in their new home?
Through the stories of Mariia, Sonya, Manya and Timofii, the film explores how children experience emigration, build new lives, integrate into society and dream about their futures. The film offers insight into the strength of family bonds, cultural identity and the resilience of young minds. The deep connection between mother and child is the heart of this film, showing how love becomes the anchor that helps them navigate life between two worlds.

Details

Year: 2025
Type of project: Shorts
Running time: 49 min 34 sec
Format: Digital, HD (4K)
Director: Lora Arkhypenko
Producer: Lora Arkhypenko
Co-Producer: Olia Yenko
Executive Producer: Lora Arkhypenko
Editor: Andrii Kireiev
Director of Photography: Lora Arkhypenko
Principal cast: With contributions from: Sofiia Arkhypenko, Daria Dmytriieva, Manya Dmytriieva, Oksana Pobudzey, Sofiia Pobudzey, Mariia Pobudzey, Maryna Chukanova, Tymofii Chukanov, Olesia Tanaka, Laura Fisher, Amanda Jones, Cinty Yarnell, Tim Hodgkinson, Annabel Foulger

Genre

Children’s Drama War Woman Director

Production Status

Complete

Production Company

Lora Arkhypenko

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A powerful and emotional documentary short film that follows the lives of three courageous women who were forced to leave their home country of Ukraine due to ongoing conflict and war. Through this film, the director wanted to shed light on the experiences of Ukrainian incredibly strong and resilient women. They were forced to leave their homes, their families, and their country in search of a safe place for their children. It wasn't an easy decision, but it was one that they had to make for the survival. Through these stories, we see the struggles they faced in a new country, language barriers, and cultural differences. But we also see the beauty of women's spirit, as they find the strength to rebuild their lives no matter what. Their stories are not just about the war, but also about hope and resilience.

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