theguardian.com
Ukrainian War Film Depicts Brutal Realities
A Polish-Ukrainian war film, released on the third anniversary of the Russian invasion, uses interwoven stories—including those of a Polish traveler, a Russian mother seeking her son, and Ukrainian women in a basement—to depict the war's brutal reality from various perspectives.
- How does the film use different perspectives to portray the complexities of war?
- The film uses multiple storylines to portray the war's devastating effects, from the perspective of orphans, a Polish traveler, and a Russian mother, creating a powerful anti-war message. The nonlinear narrative, though not always seamless, effectively conveys the chaos and brutality of war.
- What are the most significant consequences of the Russian invasion of Ukraine depicted in this film?
- Come and See"-esque film depicts brutal realities of war in Ukraine, interwoven stories showcasing the suffering caused by the Russian invasion. A Polish traveler's journey intersects with a Russian mother searching for her son, highlighting the war's impact on civilians.
- What are the potential long-term impacts of the events depicted in the film, and how might it shape future narratives about the conflict?
- The film's climax, a baby's perspective on Russian pillaging, is particularly impactful, highlighting the innocence lost in war. The use of long takes in the final section emphasizes the brutality and violence inflicted upon Ukrainian women. The film serves as a powerful testament to the ongoing suffering in Ukraine.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The framing emphasizes the suffering caused by the Russian invasion, using emotionally charged language and focusing on the victims. The headline and opening sentences immediately establish this anti-Russia sentiment. This could affect public understanding by reinforcing pre-existing biases.
Language Bias
The review uses strong, emotionally charged language such as "brutalizing reality," "phantasmagoric descent," and "appalling." These terms lack neutrality and could influence reader perception. More neutral alternatives might include "harsh reality," "grim depiction," and "disagreeable.
Bias by Omission
The review focuses heavily on the film's portrayal of the war's brutality and the suffering of Ukrainians, potentially omitting perspectives from Russian soldiers or civilians. The review doesn't explore the political motivations behind the war in detail, which could provide a more complete picture.
False Dichotomy
The review presents a clear anti-war and anti-Russia stance, without much nuance or exploration of alternative perspectives or complexities of the conflict.
Gender Bias
While the film features both male and female characters, the review focuses more on the suffering of Ukrainian women, particularly in the final, impactful scene. This might unintentionally perpetuate stereotypes about women being primarily victims of war.
Sustainable Development Goals
The film depicts the brutal reality of war, highlighting violations of human rights, and the suffering inflicted upon civilians. The portrayal of Russian aggression and the destruction caused in Ukraine directly relates to the lack of peace, justice, and strong institutions.