The second Ukrainian film festival celebrates culture amid the shadow of war

Ukrainian cinema took center stage in Bangkok on Monday, as the Art and Culture Centre hosted its second film festival amid the backdrop of war. Chargé d'affaires Viktor Semenov highlighted the nation's resilience, emphasizing that culture grows from the experiences of its people and is never guaranteed. Semenov, representing Ukraine, spoke of the 35th anniversary of their independence, a time of reflection and pride.

He lamented the fact that Ukraine has been engulfed in war for almost a third of its modern history since Russia's aggression, resulting in countless casualties and displacement. Reflecting on the impact of war, Semenov invited the audience to honor the innocent victims with a minute of silence.

The festival featured a screening of Shadows of Forgotten Ancestors, a 1965 classic by Serhii Parajanov. The film, set in the Carpathian Mountains, weaves a tragic love story amidst grief, religion, tradition, and music. Parajanov's work was revolutionary, showcasing Ukraine's language, music, and traditions at a time when cultural expression faced pressure under Soviet rule. The film, which was later banned by Soviet authorities, remains a revered masterpiece of Ukrainian cinema.

Other films featured in the festival include Malevych (2025), The Underground Garden (2026), The Stronghold (2017), and War Through the Eyes of Animals (2025). These films, shown for the first time in Thailand, offer a unique perspective on Ukraine through its own stories, culture, and people. The festival, which runs until August 6, marks the anniversary of Ukraine's independence.

The Embassy of Ukraine in Thailand expressed gratitude to Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt and the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC) for their support, stating that the films provide Thai audiences with a deeper understanding of Ukraine. The festival is open to the public and can be accessed by registering on their website.