FATI

A poignant documentary exploring the life of Fati, a young girl growing up in a Donbas village amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The film offers an intimate look at her daily life, her family's resilience, and her dreams for a peaceful future. It captures the complex reality of childhood in a war-torn region, highlighting both the innocence of youth and the harshness of their circumstances.

FATI has been lauded by critics for its sensitive portrayal of a child's perspective on war and its powerful depiction of resilience. Reviewers have praised Iryna Tsilyk's empathetic direction and the raw, authentic performances of the family. The film is recognized for its ability to convey the emotional toll of conflict on ordinary lives while maintaining a sense of hope.

• A deeply moving and humanistic look at childhood in wartime.

• Praised for its authentic portrayal of resilience and hope amidst conflict.

• Director Iryna Tsilyk masterfully captures intimate moments with profound emotional impact.

Google audience: Google users have overwhelmingly praised FATI, highlighting its emotional depth and the inspiring strength of the Matsiichuk family. Many viewers found the film to be a powerful and important story that effectively communicated the realities of life in a conflict zone while emphasizing the enduring human spirit. The documentary's ability to balance hardship with moments of joy and hope resonated strongly with audiences.

Special Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival 2023, Grand Prix at the Krakow Film Festival 2023, Audience Award at the Thessaloniki Documentary Festival 2023.

The film's title, 'FATI', is a nickname for the young protagonist, Nadiia, derived from the Ukrainian word 'fatyshy' (to be fat), given by her grandfather.