On Saturday, 20 September 2025, Chapter Arts Centre in Cardiff will transform into a vibrant hub of Ukrainian storytelling and cultural exchange. The one-day Ukraine Film and Cultural Festival, presented by Senedd 4 Ukraine in partnership with British Council Wales and Chapter, offers a rich programme of screenings that span genres, generations, and historical moments.
The day begins at 11:00 am with The Legend of Ochi, a fantasy adventure about a young girl who encounters a wounded mythical creature and embarks on a journey to bring him home. This family-friendly film sets a tone of wonder and connection, inviting audiences into a world shaped by imagination and heritage.
At 1:00 pm, two screenings run in parallel. In First Space, UK-Ukraine Youth Shorts showcases short films created by young refugees, offering intimate perspectives on life in the UK. Simultaneously, the main cinema presents A Man with a Movie Camera, Dziga Vertov’s 1929 cinematic masterpiece. This silent documentary, celebrated for its groundbreaking techniques, captures the pulse of urban life in Kyiv, Odessa, and Moscow.
At 3:30 pm, Taras. Return revisits the exile of Ukrainian poet and activist Taras Shevchenko. Directed by Alexander Denysenko, the film blends historical accuracy with emotional depth, portraying Shevchenko’s resilience during his time in Kazakhstan.
The festival concludes at 6:00 pm with Battle for Kyiv, a gripping documentary that follows young politician Sviatoslav Yurash during Ukraine’s defence of its capital. The film offers a frontline view of courage and leadership in the face of Russian aggression, underscoring the stakes of cultural and territorial resistance.
Each screening is free to attend, reflecting the festival’s commitment to accessibility and community engagement. Through film, the Ukraine Film and Cultural Festival in Cardiff invites audiences to witness, reflect, and stand in solidarity with Ukraine’s past, present, and future.
For full programme details and booking, visit the official festival page.
