The conflict in Ukraine has been a subject of discussion for the last several years. However, there has been conflict in the region in the years leading up to the recent escalations. Filmmakers Juri Rechinksy and Pierre Crom recount issues in the country and surrounding areas starting in February 2014. The film gives background to the recent turmoil in the region, making viewers aware that there’s been conflict in the region the public may not have known about.
Crom travels to Crimea in 2014, a day before its annexation to Russia. Viewers may (somewhat justifiably) deem this suspicious, but it puts Crom right in the middle of the action as the conflict in the region escalates for years. Realizing this, Crom (who bought a one-way ticket anyway) decides to stay and document what he sees. And he sees a lot.
The Annexation of Crimea is just one major focal point of the documentary. We are witnesses to various milestones due to Crom’s involvement. These include the beginning of the war in Sloviansk, which ultimately resulted in a victory for the Ukrainian people. We also witness the aftermath of the Malaysia MH17 crash, which was shot down over Ukrainian airspace by Russian forces. We also see Crom document the tank battle of Debaltseve. While replaced by more recent developments in the region, it’s fascinating to see how long there’s been turmoil in the region.
Crom and Rechinsky work well together. Crom spends a great deal of time in the region, giving the documentary a real eyewitness feel. Rechinsky, with several films under his belt, also grew up in Ukraine. The duo provides a level of authenticity that makes the action in the documentary all the more meaningful. It’s also a fascinating look into a region that, to this day, is under constant threat.
Where does this documentary fit on public or academic library shelves?
This film fits on the shelves of both public and academic libraries in several prominent areas:
Documentary and Non-fiction: As a comprehensive examination of the modern refugee crisis, this film would be a crucial addition to any documentary collection. It provides an in-depth look at contemporary global issues, making it an informative resource for viewers seeking to understand the realities and challenges faced by refugees today.
Political Science: For students and researchers in political science, the film offers valuable insights into modern political trends and events. It serves as a case study for examining the political dimensions of the refugee crisis, including the policies and decisions that impact displaced populations.
Public Policy and Government: This film is particularly beneficial for those involved in or studying public policy and government. It highlights the intricacies of policy-making, the humanitarian efforts required to address refugee situations, and the governmental responses to such crises. It can serve as a practical tool for understanding the implementation and consequences of public policies.
Sociology and Human Rights: The film’s exploration of the social impact of the refugee crisis makes it a fitting resource for the sociology and human rights sections. It delves into the social dynamics, cultural implications, and human rights issues associated with displacement, providing a comprehensive view of the societal effects of the refugee crisis.
International Relations: For those studying international relations, the film provides a crucial context for understanding global responses to the refugee crisis. It examines the international policies, cooperation, and conflicts that arise in response to mass displacement, making it an essential resource for comprehending the global dimensions of the issue.
Global Studies and Humanitarian Affairs: The film also belongs in the global studies and humanitarian affairs sections, as it provides a detailed look at the humanitarian responses to the refugee crisis. It showcases the efforts of various international organizations and non-profits working to aid refugees, offering a perspective on global humanitarian efforts.
What are the pricing details for Signs of War for libraries, communities, and educational institutions?
The pricing for Signs of War for libraries and educational institutions is as follows:
- DVD: Priced at $29.95
- DVD with Public Performance Rights (PPR): Available for $250
- Digital Site License (DSL) & DVD with PPR: Available for $375
- Digital Site License Information (DSL).
Directors' Bio
Juri Rechinsky is a director, editor, and writer. Born in Turkmenistan and raised in Ukraine, he has been living in Vienna since 2013. His documentary SICKFUCKPEOPLE (75', 2013, Novotny Film) and his feature film UGLY (92', 2017, Novotny Film/Pronto Film/Ulrich Seidl Film) have been screened at the IFF Rotterdam, Hot Docs, Sao Paolo Mostra, and DOK Leipzig. He has won several awards, including the Heart of Sarajevo, Raindance, Viennale, European Independent Film Festival, and DocsDF Mexico. He is a member of the European Film Academy.
Pierre Crom (born in 1967 in France) resides in the Netherlands. In his award-winning photo reports, he addresses geo/political and societal issues and collaborates with renowned international photo agencies (Getty Images, ANP, Hollandse Hoogte). Since 2014, Crom has documented the crisis in Ukraine, capturing historical moments such as the annexation of Crimea, the downing of passenger flight MH17, and violations of the ceasefire by Russia. He has received numerous awards for his work.
Film Festivals
- Best Austrian Film – The Filmfestival Viennale
- Intl Human Rights Film Festival Albania (IHRFFA), Albania
- Diagonale – Festival of Austrian Film, Austria
- Kraków Film Festival, Poland
- Nancy International Film Festival, France
- NNW International Film Festival Gdynia, Poland
- CineCulture Film Series, US