Alisa Kovalenko: A Filmmaker, Mother, and Soldier
Ukrainian documentary filmmaker Alisa Kovalenko, known for her works such as Alisa in Warland, Home Games, and We Will Not Fade Away, wears multiple hats as a mother, a filmmaker, and a soldier. In the wake of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in spring 2022, she made the courageous decision to enlist and defend her homeland. This meant leaving behind her husband, Stéphane Siohan, a French author and producer, and their five-year-old son.
Exploring Love and War in “My Dear Théo”
Her latest documentary, My Dear Théo, is set to premiere on March 23 at CPH:DOX, the Copenhagen International Documentary Film Festival. This poignant film unfolds through a series of heartfelt letters addressed to her young son, Théo. The letters grapple with profound themes such as the nature of war, the essence of love, and the heartbreaking choices one faces in life.
A Testament to the Human Spirit
The documentary is described as “a testament to the power of love in times of war,” seamlessly intertwining the stark realities of frontline life with poetic expressions shared with her son. As outlined on the festival’s website, viewers are invited into the intense daily life of the Ukrainian frontline, showcasing both moments of reflective solace and the chaotic onslaught of attacks. “Most soldiers spend their time waiting, and in those moments, the internal struggles often overshadow the external chaos,” the festival notes.
Trailer Reveals an Emotional Journey
In an exclusive reveal by The Hollywood Reporter, the first trailer for My Dear Théo features not only Théo but also glimpses of Kovalenko and her fellow soldiers as they navigate the frontline. This preview offers a powerful insight into the emotional odyssey viewers can expect.
Finding Profound Meaning in the Mundane
Kovalenko reflects on her experience, stating, “Spending countless hours in that trench makes you acutely aware of the small details—the leaves, the trees, and all the little things that, while seemingly insignificant, form an integral part of the lived experience.” She emphasizes the existential depth that transcends what can be captured on film, expressing that her written letters convey a more significant emotional resonance. “In the end, the letters carry more emotional weight than the visual footage itself,” she explains.
A Heartbreaking Conversation with Her Son
One particularly striking moment is recounted by the filmmaker: “There’s a scene in the film where I discuss parents going to the front lines so that our children are safe. Théo turned to me and said, ‘Mama, I don’t want you to go back to the frontline. I’ll go instead.'” This poignant exchange highlights the impact of war on family dynamics and the innocence of childhood amidst such turmoil.
Production and Availability
My Dear Théo is produced by Haka Films and is currently being marketed by Stranger Films Sales. For an early look, view the exclusive trailer embedded below.
For more information, visit the Hollywood Reporter.