How can filmmakers portray traumatic stories without inflicting psychological pain on their protagonists? On June 11, as part of the DOCU/PRO platform, an event will take place to equip accredited industry participants with practical tools for navigating the complex ethical challenges documentary filmmakers encounter while creating their projects.
The workshop, featuring director Tetiana Khodakivska, will focus on the challenges of filming children in documentary cinema during wartime — addressing questions of ethics, safety, and emotional impact. For several years, Tetiana has been working on The Blue Sweater with a Yellow Hole, a film about propaganda and Ukrainian children and teenagers who were returned from Russian ‘re-education’ camps. Over this period, she and her team have worked with 72 children who were repatriated after being deported, unlawfully relocated, and/or held under occupation.
During the production of The Blue Sweater with a Yellow Hole, the team established a unique platform for interdisciplinary collaboration, bringing together academic institutions, human rights advocates, and contemporary art (with Alevtina Kakhidze as the film’s art director). The project received international recognition early on, during its development and production phases. It became part of international co-production programs involving four countries, secured support from national film funds, and was recognized and backed by prestigious institutions such as the Sundance Institute and Columbia University’s Harriman Institute.
The event will offer an opportunity to discuss, among other topics, how and where to prepare yourself and your team for filming with children who may have experienced trauma, and why safeguarding their well-being is not only a responsibility but also a strategic advantage. What permissions and protocols are necessary, and what do broadcasters and distributors typically require? What legal and ethical pitfalls should filmmakers be aware of? The speaker will also share insights on how to identify the right partners — those who support rather than jeopardize your project’s funding. The event will conclude with Tetiana Khodakivska presenting practical exercises for working with children and film crews in emergency or high-stress situations.
Access to the events requires DOCU/PRO industry accreditation, which can be purchased until May 25. Follow updates and event announcements on the DOCU/PRO platform via the official website. Learn more about the program here.
The event will be held at KINO42 cinema, with an option to join online.
Photo: Stas Kartashov
The 22nd Docudays UA is held with the financial support of the European Union, the Embassy of Sweden in Ukraine, International Renaissance Foundation. The opinions, conclusions, or recommendations do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union, the governments, or organisations of these countries. Responsibility for the content of the publication lies exclusively with the authors and editors of the publication.
