Traces (Сліди)

Production Status
Сompleted
Year of starting production
2025
Release Date
2026
Country(ies) of (co)production
Ukraine, Poland
Languages
Ukrainian
Duration
82’

Despite the deep traces of trauma caused by sexual violence and torture resulting from Russian aggression, Ukrainian women survivors are uniting to break stigma and silence, transforming their testimonies into a powerful form of resistance.

Traces shines a light on Ukrainian women who, after surviving conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV) and torture during Russia’s war, refuse to remain silent. Through the journey of Iryna Dovhan, a former captive turned activist, who documents testimonies of affected women on the de-occupied territories of Ukraine, the film weaves a collective portrait of trauma while opening space for hope. Iryna gathers other survivors into a circle of courage and care. Together, they transform their pain into a force for truth, justice, and mutual support. More than a document of war crimes, the film is a testament to resilience and the solidarity of women standing side by side.

CREW:
Сo-production: Dariusz Jablonski, Violetta Kamińska, Izabela Wójcik
DOP: Alisa Kovalenko
Sound: Mariia Nesterenko, Maciej Amilkiewicz
Music: Wojciech Frycz
Editing: Nikon Romanchenko, Alisa Kovalenko, Milenia Fiedler
Production:
Co-production: Message Film
Funding:
Already engaged financial partners and funds: Polish Film Institute, ARTE France, International Media Support (IMS), Ukrainian Film Academy in cooperation with Netflix Fund for Creative Equity, SEMA Ukraine, Dr. Denis Mukwege Foundation, Robert Bosch Stiftung, Ukrainian Institute, Eurimages
Sales:
Point of contact:
Festivals
76 International Berlin Film Festival, Panorama section, Panorama Audience Award; Grand Jury Documentary Award at the Movies That Matter festival

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