Soldiers of Song

I watched this film in Kyiv alongside local Ukrainians and it was the most powerful, emotional, compelling bit of storytelling I have seen during the entire war. We did not have enough tissues to dry our tears. I live in Ukraine and there were many narratives even I had not heard before. The film gives many storylines that will make it worth your while to go see this movie. I know many of the people in the film and they all are incredibly proud to have their stories told in such a beautiful cinematic masterpiece.

If you want to know the real story of life in Ukraine following the full-scale invasion, watch this incredible film!

"Soldiers of Song" presents an intimate story of the war shown through life trajectories of Ukrainian people related to the music - from established "stars" investing their visibility to garner international support to aspiring talents whose professional development was aborted by the full-scale invasion, or - rather - they suspended it in favour of serving to the people or fighting on the battlefield. It is a very humane movie full of pain and suffering but also full of light and hope. It poses important questions on the fragility of civilization and the importance of art for humankind. Through its evocative power, it helps the audience to emotionally connect with the realities on the ground but also to see broader repercussions of this brutal war. Delicate and genuine, it is a must-see for those seeking beyond national interests and geopolitical calculations to ponder over our shared human condition and the universal meaning of Ukraine's fight.

Deeply inspired by this film, that beautifully illustrates how creativity becomes both a weapon and a sanctuary during times of unimaginable adversity. At its core, Soldiers of the Song illustrates how music transcends borders, serving as a universal language of resilience and resistance.

This documentary stands as a testament to the courage of Ukrainian musicians who continue to sing, compose, and play, reminding the world that even in the face of war, creativity can rise and endure.

What stands out most in "Soldiers of the Song" is its celebration of the spirit of resilience. It doesn't shy away from the pain and destruction but instead highlights the determination of these musicians to keep creating, to keep singing, and to keep hope alive... such a great example that art has the power to heal, unite, and ignite a sense of purpose.

This documentary is a testament to the bravery and endurance of the talented Ukrainian soldiers in the war against Russia. Such an important film to remind us of the sacrifice of the Ukrainians and to resist the empathy fatigue we are all experiencing with so many tragedies in the world right now. The perspective from the established and successful musicians risking their lives to join the resistance against Russia's invasion highlights both the heart and spirit of the Ukrainian culture as well as the power of their music to inspire and support their cause. This film brings light and hope in the face of so many brutalities inflicted upon them. #standwithukraine.

Soldiers of Song Film takes you on an intricate journey through some of the darkest days of the war while tieing together the stories of opera singers, chamber conductors and Ukrainian stars like Sviatoslav Vakarchuk of Okean Elzy, Svitlana Tarabarova and Andriy Hlyvniuk of Boombox. This documentary by Ryan Smith beautifully demonstrates the resilience of Ukraine and Her people but also highlights the enduring power of music in times of war.

Soldiers of Song captured the deep connection of culture and song for us as Ukrainians and I think it shows the true essence of the unwavering Ukrainian spirit and why even in the darkest hour, in times of pain and destruction... we turn to music... because of its ability to heal.

If Soldiers of Song is playing in your city, tell your Ukrainian friends but more importantly, tell your non-Ukrainian friends because the power of music knows no bounds and does not require translation. Make sure you bring your tissues and let the spirit of Ukraine, those fighting and the music take you on a journey of heartache, resilience and hope.