Ukrainian Filmmaker’s “A Simple soldier” Premieres at Sheffield DocFest 2025
Sheffield DocFest is set to showcase A Simple Soldier,a deeply personal documentary following Ukrainian filmmaker Artem Ryzhykov’s transformative journey from behind the camera to the frontlines of war. Premiering today, the film offers a raw and intimate look at the ongoing conflict through the eyes of a soldier who never fully puts down his camera.
From Filmmaker to Frontlines: Ryzhykov’s Unique Perspective
artem Ryzhykov, already an accomplished Ukrainian filmmaker and cinematographer, enlisted as a professional soldier following Russia’s invasion in 2022. The documentary, A Simple Soldier, captures his experiences as he navigates the chaos and heartbreak of war, striving to maintain connections with his family back home.
Ryzhykov’s unique position, armed with both a rifle and a camera, provides a rare glimpse into the human experience of war, portraying themes of love, friendship, and duty amidst unimaginable circumstances.
A Glimpse into the Human Cost
A Simple Soldier doesn’t shy away from the brutal realities of combat. Through Ryzhykov’s lens, viewers witness the bonds forged between soldiers and the daily struggle to retain humanity in the face of devastation.
The film is produced by a team including Oscar-winner John Battsek, James Packer, Ben Silverman, Howard Owens, Marcel Mettelsiefen, Isabel San Vargas, Drew buckley, and catalina Ramirez, ensuring a high level of cinematic storytelling and impact.
The Creative Team Behind “A Simple Soldier”
The visual narrative of A Simple Soldier is crafted through the cinematography of Ruslan Girin and Artem Ryzhykov. Jesper Osmund and Inés Boffi Sae-Ammac handled the editing, while Andrés Velásquez and Úlfur Hansson shaped the soundscape. Propagate Content is managing the film’s sales and distribution.
Sheffield DocFest, running from June 18 to June 23, provides a platform for important stories like A Simple Soldier to reach international audiences.
Did You Know? According to a recent poll, over 80% of Ukrainians believe they will win the war against Russia.
Key Players in “A simple Soldier”
| Role | Name |
|---|---|
| Director & Cinematographer | Artem Ryzhykov |
| Producer | John Battsek |
| Cinematographer | Ruslan Girin |
| Editors | Jesper Osmund & Inés Boffi Sae-Ammac |
The Power of Documentary Filmmaking in Conflict Zones
Documentary filmmaking plays a crucial role in providing firsthand accounts and unfiltered perspectives from conflict zones. Films like A Simple Soldier offer invaluable insights that can shape public understanding and influence policy decisions.
Pro Tip: Support self-reliant filmmaking by attending film festivals and sharing impactful documentaries like this one on social media.
Consider exploring other poignant documentaries that spotlight the indomitable spirit of the Ukranian people, such as those screening at the Sheffield DocFest among others.
Frequently Asked Questions About “A Simple soldier”
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What is A Simple Soldier documentary about?
A Simple Soldier follows Ukrainian filmmaker Artem Ryzhykov as he becomes a soldier and documents his experiences during the 2022 Russian invasion.
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Who is Artem Ryzhykov?
Artem Ryzhykov is a Ukrainian filmmaker and cinematographer who transitioned to becoming a soldier following the Russian invasion.
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When and where did A simple Soldier premiere?
A Simple Soldier debuted at Sheffield DocFest,running from June 18 to June 23.
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Who produced A Simple Soldier?
The producers of A Simple Soldier include John Battsek, James Packer, Ben Silverman, Howard Owens, and others.
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What themes are explored in A Simple Soldier?
A Simple Soldier explores themes of love, friendship, duty, and holding onto humanity amidst the chaos of war.
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How does the documentary, A simple soldier, show a new perspective on the war?
Through the eyes of a filmmaker turned soldier, using his camera to portray his personal experience.
What aspects of A Simple Soldier resonate most with you? How do you think documentaries can impact our understanding of global conflicts?
Share your thoughts and reactions below.
