In the midst of widespread coverage of the Russia-Ukraine war and Russia’s full-scale invasion, Ukrainian documentarian Oleg Tolmachov focuses in Faces of the Resistance: Courage in Ukraine on the humanity and resilience of those holding strong in his own country.
The short but thoughtful documentary serves as an educational primer on Ukraine’s different faces of the resistance, from groups rescuing stray animals to citizens promoting inspirational messages of freedom through art and theatrical performances. The spirit behind these ordinary citizens is one of strength and courage. These people boldly speak out for their personal rights; they didn’t deserve to be caught in the middle of the Russia-Ukraine war, but they adapt and prevail anyway. One of the faces of resistance is the owner of a sewing shop that had to do just that. Following Russia’s full-scale invasion, the shop evolved from making clothes for families and fashion events to providing uniforms and equipment to the Ukrainian military.
In spotlighting the roles of soldiers and citizens in helping their country survive and thrive in this conflict, Tolmachov creates a brief but educational introduction to the faces of the resistance in Ukraine. He chooses eloquent and inspirational speakers to enlighten us as to what the people need to keep going. And as the documentarian shedding light on the efforts of individual people, Oleg Tolmachov is yet another face.
His documentary could have been improved by more historical and political context—each section of the film provides only light, introductory material, and perhaps brushes too quickly over the horrors Ukrainian people have faced. However, Faces of the Resistance is much more so about ordinary people than the Russia-Ukraine conflict as a whole. It is the fervor and resilience of its subjects that power Tolmachov’s work.
To accompany the documentary’s hopeful appeals, EPF Media’s study guide for Faces of the Resistance gives a light overview of relevant Russia-Ukraine history and is suggested reading before watching the documentary, especially for those with little knowledge of the Russia-Ukraine war. Recommended.
What public library shelves would this title be on?
Oleg Tolmachov’s Faces of the Resistance belongs on documentary library shelves, especially with documentaries about war and political issues.
What type of classroom would this documentary resource be suitable for?
With its portrait of Ukrainian resistance, Faces of the Resistance makes for a good introductory resource for middle school and high school classrooms learning about the Russia-Ukraine war.
Does this film have Public Performance Rights available?
Yes! Faces of the Resistance can be purchased with public performance rights. You can visit EPF Media’s website for the purchasing options.