Five Ukrainian Films to Be Screened at Central and Eastern European Film Festival

Ukrainian cinema continues to assert its growing international presence, taking a prominent place at this year’s goEast Film Festival in Wiesbaden. From April 23 to 29, Ukrainian filmmakers will present five compelling films, two of which were supported by the Ukrainian State Film Agency. These works explore Ukraine's complex history, contemporary society, and rich cultural identity, reaffirming the country’s role as a vital contributor to Central and Eastern European cinema.

The Ukrainian line-up includes:

• U Are The Universe, directed by Pavlo Ostrikov (Meet the East section)

• The Gateway (Brama), directed by Volodymyr Tykhyi (Symposium section)

• Haytarma, directed by Akhtem Seitablaev (80 Years after WWII section)

• Olha's Italian Diary, directed by Olena Fedyuk (Symposium section)

• Timestamp (Strichka chasu), directed by Kateryna Hornostai (Meet the East section)

The Ukrainian State Film Agency emphasizes that the selected films showcase a diverse range of formats and address significant historical, social, and cultural themes.

Wiesbaden goEast Film Festival is an annual event celebrating the richness and diversity of Central and Eastern European cinema. The festival aims to highlight the region’s vibrant film culture, encourage international collaboration among filmmakers, support independent cinema, and foster cross-cultural dialogue. Each year, the festival attracts approximately 400 industry professionals and around 12,000 film enthusiasts.

Last year, Ukrainian filmmakers were celebrated at the festival: Maryna Vroda received the Award of the City of Wiesbaden for Best Director for her film "Stepne," a Ukrainian-German-Polish-Slovak co-production. Additionally, Olga Chernykh’s documentary, "A Picture to Remember," won the CEEOL Award for Best Documentary Film, highlighting Ukraine's growing cinematic influence internationally.