Ukrainian cinema has a rich history, with a wide range of films that showcase the country’s unique culture, history, and society.
From classic Soviet-era films to modern-day indie productions, Ukrainian movies have earned international acclaim for their artistic and storytelling achievements.
Some of the most notable Ukrainian films include the epic historical drama “Taras Bulba” (1962), which tells the story of a Cossack rebellion against Polish rule in the 16th century, and the critically acclaimed drama “The Tribe” (2014).
which features a cast of deaf actors and tells the story of a teenager’s experiences at a boarding school for the deaf.
Other notable Ukrainian films include the black comedy “Papa” (1998), the romantic drama “The Guide” (2014), and the biographical drama “When the Trees Were Tall” (1961), which explores the life of renowned Ukrainian poet Lesya Ukrainka.
Best Ukrainian Movies
With a diverse and talented pool of filmmakers, actors, and writers, Ukrainian cinema continues to make a significant impact on the global film industry.
1. Shadows of Forgotten Ancestors (1965)
“Shadows of Forgotten Ancestors” is a Ukrainian-Soviet film directed by Sergei Parajanov and released in 1965. The film is based on the novel “The Hutsuls” by Ukrainian writer Mykhailo Kotsiubynsky and stars Ivan Mykolaichuk, Larisa Kadochnikova, and Tatyana Bestayeva.
The story is set in the Carpathian Mountains of Ukraine and follows the tragic love story of Ivan and Marichka, two young Hutsul villagers.
Their romance is disrupted by the death of Marichka and Ivan’s subsequent descent into a spiral of grief and madness. The film also explores the Hutsul culture and traditions, including their folk music and dance.
The film is notable for its innovative use of color, music, and camera techniques, as well as its poetic and dreamlike visual style.
It is considered a masterpiece of Soviet cinema and has been highly acclaimed by critics and filmmakers around the world. The film won numerous awards, including the Prix International at the 1965 Cannes Film Festival.
![Shadows Of Forgotten Ancestors [DVD] [UK Import]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51BoGbKGItL.jpg)
- English (Subtitle)
2. Earth (1930)
Earth is a 1930 Soviet silent film directed by Ukrainian filmmaker Alexander Dovzhenko. The film is set in a small Ukrainian village and follows a group of farmers as they struggle to modernize their traditional way of life.
The central conflict of the film revolves around the introduction of tractors, which represent the new industrial order, and the resistance of the villagers who fear losing their land and way of life.
The film is notable for its innovative use of cinematic language, including stunning images of the Ukrainian landscape, poetic intertitles, and a powerful score composed by Levko Revutsky. It is considered a masterpiece of Soviet cinema and one of the most important films of the silent era.
Earth was highly praised upon its release and has since been recognized as a classic of world cinema. Its themes of modernization and tradition, as well as its exploration of the relationship between humanity and the natural world, continue to resonate with audiences today.
- Stepan Shkurat, Semyon Svashenko (Actors)
- Aleksandr Dovzhenko (Director)
- English (Subtitle)
- Audience Rating: NR (Not Rated)
3. Bilyy ptakh z chornoyu oznakoyu (1971)
“Bilyy ptakh z chornoyu oznakoyu” is a Ukrainian drama film directed by Yuriy Illienko and released in 1971.
The film is based on a novel by Ukrainian writer Mykhailo Kotsiubynsky and tells the story of a young Ukrainian peasant named Pavlo, who becomes disillusioned with his life in a small village and decides to join the anarchist movement.
As Pavlo travels through the countryside, he encounters a variety of people, including other anarchists, revolutionary intellectuals, and ordinary peasants who are struggling to survive under the yoke of Tsarist oppression.
Through his experiences, Pavlo comes to understand the complexity and contradictions of the revolutionary struggle, and must grapple with his own beliefs and desires.
The film is noted for its poetic and lyrical style, as well as its portrayal of the Ukrainian landscape and folk traditions. It was highly praised by critics and won several awards at international film festivals, including the FIPRESCI Prize at the 1972 Cannes Film Festival.
For more about Ukraine cinema, you can check out our overview of the best films from Ukraine and our country-by-country exploration of global cinema.
4. Swan Lake: The Zone (1990)
“Swan Lake: The Zone” (Russian: Лебединое Озеро: Зона) is a 1990 Russian film directed by Yuri Ilyenko. The film is a modern interpretation of the classic ballet “Swan Lake” by Pyotr Tchaikovsky, set in the context of the Chernobyl disaster and the subsequent exclusion zone.
The film follows the story of a group of scientists and workers who are conducting research in the exclusion zone, where the radiation levels are dangerously high.
The protagonist, a young ballerina named Olga, is sent to the zone to perform a special rendition of “Swan Lake” for the workers and soldiers stationed there.
As Olga rehearses for the performance, she begins to experience strange and surreal visions that reflect the tragic history of the zone and its inhabitants.
“Swan Lake: The Zone” is known for its experimental style and its use of symbolic imagery to explore the themes of beauty, tragedy, and human resilience in the face of adversity. The film won several awards at international film festivals and is considered a classic of Russian cinema.
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5. Famine ’33 (1991)
“Famine ’33” (Ukrainian: “Голод 33”) is a 1991 Ukrainian drama film directed by Oles Yanchuk. The movie is based on the novel “The Harvest on the Steel Lands” by Vasyl Barka.
The movie is set during the Ukrainian famine of 1932-1933, also known as the Holodomor. The famine was a man-made disaster caused by Joseph Stalin’s policies that resulted in the deaths of millions of Ukrainians.
The movie follows the story of a young peasant girl named Katya, who is forced to leave her village and search for food in the city of Kharkiv. Along the way, she encounters other victims of the famine and witnesses the brutality of the Soviet authorities.
“Famine ’33” is a powerful and emotional portrayal of one of the darkest moments in Ukrainian history. The movie explores the impact of the famine on ordinary people, focusing on the experiences of those who suffered and died during this tragic period.
The film is notable for its realistic and unflinching depiction of the famine, including scenes of extreme hunger, desperation, and violence.
Overall, “Famine ’33” is a haunting and important film that sheds light on a little-known chapter in world history. It is a tribute to the resilience and courage of the Ukrainian people and a reminder of the devastating consequences of totalitarianism and oppression.
3 Characteristics of Ukrainian Movies
Historical and social themes: Many Ukrainian movies explore historical events and social issues that have shaped the country’s identity and culture, including the legacy of Soviet-era oppression, the struggle for independence, and the ongoing conflict with Russia.
These films often examine the impact of these events on individual lives and relationships.
Artistic experimentation: Ukrainian filmmakers are known for their innovative and experimental approaches to filmmaking, often incorporating elements of surrealism, fantasy, and magical realism into their work.
Many Ukrainian movies also feature striking cinematography and a unique visual style.
Authenticity and realism: Ukrainian movies are often praised for their authenticity and realism, with many filmmakers striving to portray the lives and experiences of ordinary people in a way that is honest and relatable.
This commitment to realism is reflected in the use of non-professional actors, naturalistic dialogue, and a focus on everyday moments and interactions.
3 Reasons To Watch Ukrainian Movies
Unique cultural perspective: Ukrainian movies offer a unique perspective on the culture and history of Ukraine, providing insight into the country’s rich traditions, folklore, and social issues.
Through films, viewers can learn about the struggles and triumphs of the Ukrainian people, as well as their perspectives on global events and trends.
Diverse range of genres: Ukrainian cinema encompasses a wide range of genres, from historical dramas to contemporary comedies and experimental art films.
This diversity allows viewers to explore different aspects of Ukrainian culture and society, and to discover new and innovative approaches to filmmaking.
International recognition: Ukrainian films have gained recognition and acclaim on the international stage, winning awards at major film festivals and earning critical praise from audiences and critics alike.
By watching Ukrainian movies, viewers can experience some of the best and most innovative works of cinema from this vibrant and dynamic country.
Best Ukrainian Movies – Wrap Up
In conclusion, Ukrainian cinema has a rich and diverse history, with many notable films that explore a wide range of themes and genres.
Some of the best Ukrainian movies include “Shadows of Forgotten Ancestors,” “The Stone Cross,” and “The Tribe,” which have received critical acclaim both within Ukraine and internationally.
Other notable Ukrainian films include “A Friend of the Deceased,” “The Firecrosser,” and “The Guide,” which showcase the talent and creativity of Ukrainian filmmakers.
Many of these films deal with themes of identity, history, and social justice, and they provide a unique perspective on the cultural and political context of Ukraine.
Overall, Ukrainian cinema continues to evolve and thrive, with many new and exciting filmmakers emerging and pushing the boundaries of what is possible on screen.
As Ukraine continues to navigate its place in the global community, its cinema offers a valuable and illuminating window into the country’s past, present, and future.
