In the heart of Ukraine, where the echoes of war have become a persistent soundtrack, Yuliia Hontaruk's documentary, 'To Die to Live', emerges as a poignant and profound exploration of the human condition in the face of conflict. This film, which premiered at the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival, offers a unique perspective on the Russo-Ukrainian conflict, focusing on the lives of three volunteers who have endured the horrors of war for over a decade. What makes this documentary truly captivating is its ability to delve into the psychological and emotional journey of these individuals, revealing the profound impact of war on their lives and the resilience of the human spirit.
Hontaruk's decision to follow these volunteers for 12 years is a bold and ambitious one. What began as a seemingly straightforward documentary about the war in Ukraine evolved into a deeply personal and transformative experience for the director. As she states, "I thought I was making a film about war. I was wrong." This realization underscores the power of storytelling and how a single perspective can shift dramatically over time, especially in the context of a prolonged and devastating conflict.
The film follows Shakhta, a dancer, Potter, and Dancer, who volunteered for the army in 2014, a decision that would change their lives forever. The documentary captures their experiences on the frontlines, the return to civilian life, and the subsequent re-entry into the war in 2022. Hontaruk's cinematography, with contributions from Denys Strashnyi, Yurii Gruzinov, and herself, beautifully captures the harsh realities of war while also highlighting the resilience and determination of these individuals.
One of the most striking aspects of 'To Die to Live' is its exploration of the psychological impact of war. The volunteers' experiences on the frontlines are harrowing, and the film does not shy away from depicting the trauma they endure. However, what is equally compelling is their journey back to civilian life and the struggle to find a sense of normalcy. The Russian invasion in 2022 forces them to confront the war once more, highlighting the cyclical nature of conflict and its enduring impact on the human psyche.
Hontaruk's commentary on the film is insightful and thought-provoking. She emphasizes that the documentary is not just about the war but about the transformation of these individuals and the resilience of life itself. "This is not really a film about war," she says, "It is about what war leaves inside people, and what they do with it." This perspective is crucial in understanding the broader implications of the film, which extends beyond the personal stories of the volunteers to a broader reflection on the human condition and the enduring power of life.
The film's life-affirming message is a testament to the strength of the human spirit. Despite the loss, rupture, and years of waiting, life has proven itself stronger than death. Hontaruk's personal interpretation of this message is that "men choose it" - a powerful statement that underscores the agency and resilience of individuals in the face of adversity. This perspective is particularly fascinating because it challenges the notion that war is an inevitable and insurmountable force, instead presenting it as a challenge that can be overcome through personal determination and the will to survive.
In my opinion, 'To Die to Live' is a must-watch documentary for anyone interested in the human impact of war. It offers a unique and intimate perspective on the Russo-Ukrainian conflict, revealing the profound transformation of these volunteers and the resilience of the human spirit. Hontaruk's commentary and personal interpretation add depth and nuance to the film, making it a thought-provoking and engaging watch. As the world grapples with the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, this documentary serves as a powerful reminder of the human cost of war and the enduring strength of the human spirit.
