On Saturday, 20 September 2025, Cardiff’s Chapter Arts Centre became a vibrant stage for Ukrainian voices during the Ukraine Film and Cultural Festival. Organised by Senedd 4 Ukraine in collaboration with British Council Wales and Chapter, the event offered a powerful blend of cinematic storytelling and cultural reflection.
The festival opened with The Legend of Ochi, a family-friendly fantasy that set a tone of wonder and connection. Audiences followed a young girl’s journey to help a wounded mythical creature, a narrative that resonated with themes of empathy and belonging.
At midday, two screenings ran in parallel. First Space featured short films by young Ukrainian refugees living in the UK, offering intimate glimpses into their lived experiences. Meanwhile, Dziga Vertov’s 1929 silent classic A Man with a Movie Camera transported viewers to Kyiv, Odessa, and Moscow, capturing the rhythm of urban life through groundbreaking cinematic techniques.
The afternoon continued with Taras. Return, a historical drama directed by Alexander Denysenko. The film revisited the exile of Ukrainian poet and activist Taras Shevchenko, portraying his resilience and inner strength during his time in Kazakhstan.
The day concluded with Battle for Kyiv, a gripping documentary that followed young politician Sviatoslav Yurash during Ukraine’s defence of its capital. The film offered a raw, frontline perspective on leadership and courage in the face of Russian aggression.
Each screening was free to attend, underscoring the festival’s commitment to accessibility and community engagement. Through film, the Cardiff event invited audiences to witness Ukraine’s past and present, and to stand in solidarity with its people.
