Ukraine’s Quest for Back-to-Back Oscar Wins in ‘Best Documentary Feature’
Ukraine’s quest for an Academy Award win was met with anticipation and excitement this year, as the country hoped to secure a consecutive win at the prestigious Oscars. However, the dream was just out of reach on Sunday night, as Ukraine’s submission, “Porcelain War,” narrowly missed out on the award in the Best Documentary Feature category. The coveted Oscar instead went to “No Other Land,” a powerful documentary chronicling the alliance between an Israeli journalist and a Palestinian activist amidst the war in Gaza.
The film “Porcelain War,” a collaborative effort between US director Brendan Bellomo and Ukrainian director Slava Leontiev, captured the hearts of audiences with its poignant portrayal of Ukrainian artists Slava, Anya, and Andriy, who found solace in creating porcelain figurines amidst Russia’s invasion. Leontiev, a key figure in the film, is currently on the front lines, adding a personal and deeply moving layer to the narrative. The documentary, which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in January 2024, was honored with the Grand Jury Prize for Documentary Films, showcasing its powerful storytelling and emotional impact.
Challenges and Triumphs of Ukrainian Documentaries
While “Porcelain War” stood out as a strong contender in the Best Documentary Feature category, other Ukrainian documentaries also made waves in the industry. “Once Upon a Time in Ukraine,” a joint US-Ukraine production directed by Betsy West, delved into the harrowing experiences of children in Ukraine facing the brutal realities of Russia’s invasion. Despite its powerful message, the film did not secure a nomination, highlighting the fierce competition in the documentary film landscape.
Additionally, two other Ukrainian submissions, “Peaceful People” by director Oksana Karpovych and “After the Rain: Putin’s Stolen Children Come Home” by Canadian director Sarah McCarthy, did not make the shortlist for the Best Documentary Feature category. The diversity and depth of storytelling in Ukrainian documentaries continue to shine a spotlight on important global issues and human experiences, showcasing the country’s vibrant film industry and creative talent.
Ukraine’s Historic Oscar Win
In 2024, Ukraine made history with its first-ever Academy Award win for the documentary “20 Days in Mariupol.” The film, shot during the devastating Russian siege of Mariupol in the aftermath of Russia’s full-scale invasion on Feb. 24, 2022, captured the resilience and spirit of the Ukrainian people amidst unimaginable tragedy. With an estimated 50,000 lives lost during the siege that lasted for months until May 2022, “20 Days in Mariupol” shed light on the untold stories of courage and survival in the face of adversity.
As the global spotlight shines on Ukraine’s burgeoning film industry and its impactful storytelling, the country continues to make waves in the world of cinema with its compelling narratives and powerful visuals. The success of Ukrainian documentaries at the Oscars reflects the country’s rich cultural heritage, resilience in the face of challenges, and unwavering commitment to sharing stories that resonate with audiences worldwide.
Kyiv Post, Ukraine’s premier English news organization since 1995, remains a steadfast voice in the country’s media landscape, providing reliable coverage and insights on local and international issues. As Ukraine’s global voice, the Kyiv Post continues to amplify the stories and experiences that shape the nation’s narrative, showcasing the country’s vibrant spirit and unwavering determination in the face of adversity.
