For decades, Ukrainian cinema was overshadowed by imperial narratives, with its most innovative works appropriated or censored. Yet, despite these challenges, Ukrainian filmmakers created distinctive and influential artistic movements—from the revolutionary avant-garde of the 1920s to the poetic cinema of the 1960s and the socially engaged documentaries of the present. This course will guide you through the key periods, figures, and phenomena that have shaped Ukrainian film history.

Over the eight weeks of the online course, we will examine pivotal moments in Ukrainian cinema, from Oleksandr Dovzhenko’s avant-garde masterpieces to the poetic language of Paradzhanov and the rise of independent Ukrainian cinema. We will explore the new wave of Ukrainian documentary filmmaking following the Revolution of Dignity and the challenges faced by filmmakers with Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022. As Ukrainian cinema continues to gain international recognition, we will consider its future directions and the impact of war on its storytelling.

This course explores the dynamic and often turbulent history of Ukrainian filmmaking, tracing its artistic triumphs, ideological battles, and contributions to world cinema.

We offer an exceptional opportunity to engage with leading experts in Ukrainian film studies and cinema history, including scholars and practitioners from Ukraine and beyond. Whether you are new to Ukrainian cinema or a dedicated cinephile, this course will provide fresh insights into a film tradition that remains both artistically vibrant and politically urgent.

What you can expect:

• Comprehensive course handbook and materials.
• Engaging discussions with lecturers and fellow students.
• Access to recorded video lectures for flexible learning.

No prior knowledge of Ukrainian cinema is required—just curiosity and a passion for film. All seminars will be conducted in English.

The course will be held via online, via Zoom.

Course curator and coordinator: Olga Sydorushkina, film programmer, critic, UIL Programme Curator.