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Ukrainian Documentary “Songs of Slow Burning Earth” Receives Double Nomination at European Film Awards

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Dariia Mykhailenko
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Still from th folm “Songs of the Land That Burns Slowly”. (Source: Suspilne Culture)
Still from th folm “Songs of the Land That Burns Slowly”. (Source: Suspilne Culture)

Ukrainian Documentary “Songs of Slow Burning Earth” Receives Double Nomination at European Film Awards

The documentary Songs of Slow Burning Earth, directed by Olga Zhurba, has been nominated for two categories at the 38th European Film Awards. The film is competing for both "European Documentary Film" and "European Film" awards.

The full list of nominees was published on the official awards website.

The documentary presents a mosaic of life in Ukraine during the initial years of Russia's full-scale invasion, showcasing the societal shifts that have taken place. It follows the journey from the early panic of the war to the gradual acceptance of death and destruction, which has tragically become a normal part of life for Ukrainians.

Still from th folm “Songs of the Land That Burns Slowly”. (Source: Suspilne Culture)
Still from th folm “Songs of the Land That Burns Slowly”. (Source: Suspilne Culture)

“These shoots began when it seemed the world was on the brink of collapse, making it impossible to focus on cinema. I felt compelled to capture the events around me, as it seemed crucial to preserve archival footage for the future,” shared the director, according to Suspilne Culture on November 18.

This marks Zhurba's second feature-length documentary, which debuted at the 2024 Venice International Film Festival and has already gained significant international recognition.

“Europe is still grappling with understanding this war, and documentary filmmaking allows us to see aspects not visible in the news. This film is not only about cultural diplomacy,” commented the film's producer, Daria Bassel.

She noted that the film's inclusion in the shortlist and its two nominations from the European Film Academy, thanks to votes from industry professionals across Europe, was a significant recognition of their team's efforts. She expressed her deep gratitude to everyone who contributed to the project.

Earlier, the animated short I Died in Irpin, directed by Ukrainian filmmaker Anastasiia Falileieva, has been awarded the Best of the Best title in the short film category at the Emile Awards.

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