The documentary 'To Die to Live' offers a profound and deeply personal exploration of the Ukrainian experience during a decade of war. It follows the journeys of three volunteers, Shakhta, Dancer, and Potter, who embarked on a path of service in 2014, only to be thrust back into the chaos of conflict in 2022. This film, directed by Yuliia Hontaruk, provides a unique and intimate perspective on the human cost of war, challenging the notion that documentaries are merely objective observers.
Hontaruk's approach is both poignant and thought-provoking. She captures the raw emotions and physical toll of war, but also the resilience and determination of these individuals to find meaning in their experiences. The director's statement reveals a personal evolution in her understanding of the project, from initially perceiving it as a war documentary to realizing its deeper significance as a study of transformation and the human spirit's capacity for endurance.
One of the most striking aspects of 'To Die to Live' is its exploration of the long-term psychological and emotional impact of war. The volunteers' stories are a testament to the indomitable will to survive and rebuild, even in the face of immense trauma. Hontaruk's cinematography, with contributions from Denys Strashnyi, Yurii Gruzinov, and herself, captures the harsh realities of the battlefield while also highlighting the intimate moments of reflection and connection among the characters.
The editing, a collaborative effort by Roman Liubyi, Uģis Olte, Mykola Bazarkin, Hontaruk, Iryna Stetsenko, Pavlo Zelenov, and Petro Tsymbal, plays a crucial role in weaving together the narrative. It seamlessly transitions between the volunteers' experiences on the front lines and their attempts to reintegrate into civilian life, emphasizing the cyclical nature of their existence.
The film's impact is heightened by its premiere at the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival, a prestigious event known for showcasing powerful and thought-provoking cinema. Hontaruk's work not only provides a window into the lives of these volunteers but also invites viewers to contemplate the broader implications of war, survival, and the human condition. It is a reminder that documentaries can be more than just a record of events; they can be a catalyst for empathy, understanding, and a deeper connection to the world's complexities.
