A profoundly humanist drama of dignified Ukrainians against fascist occupiers.

In a Russian-occupied town in southeastern Ukraine, where burying the dead has been forbidden, the church of a young priest, Andriy, has been turned into a morgue for executed Ukrainian civilians. As the occupation tightens its grip, Andriy quietly begins to resist, secretly returning the bodies to their families at great personal risk. Along the way, he forms an unexpected bond with Makarov, an 11-year-old boy who becomes the silent witness to his rebellion.

The gripping drama’s events may not surprise those living through a seemingly never-ending full-scale war, but could shock people still ignoring it. Lithuanian-born Ukrainian director Rostislav Kirpicenko uncovers cynicism, blackmail, and the brutal cruelty of the merciless attackers.

Locals must choose their side – hold on a little longer, slowly adapt, fight back, obey, collaborate, or even betray. The mightiest impact here is heartbreaking authenticity, showing how Ukrainians are surviving the ongoing occupation.

Edvinas Pukšta