From Kharkiv to Cannes: The Remarkable Journey of "My Grandma the Parachutist"

In a world where stories transcend borders and time, Polina Piddubna's animated film "My Grandma the Parachutist" has achieved what many filmmakers dream of: a coveted spot on the shortlist of La Cinef, a segment of the prestigious Cannes Film Festival dedicated to student films.

A Film Born from Courage and Resilience

Piddubna, originally from Kharkiv, now residing in Berlin, brings to the screen a tale deeply personal and universally relatable. Her film navigates the complex narrative of her grandmother, Alfia, who faced the harrowing full-scale invasion on February 24, 2022, in Kharkiv. With an unyielding spirit, Alfia chose not to flee, a decision that forms the crux of Piddubna's story.

A Journey Across Time and Space

In this mesmerizing animation, the audience witnesses Piddubna's attempts to connect with her grandmother. Instead of reaching modern-day Kharkiv, she finds herself transported to 1960s Tajikistan. Here, a younger Alfia is seen embracing the skies with her love for parachuting while studying midwifery—a testament to her indomitable spirit.

The Road to Cannes: Standing Out Among Thousands

The selection process for La Cinef was no small feat. Out of a staggering 2, 700 submissions, only 13 live-action and 3 animated films made the cut. Piddubna's work stands among this elite group, a testament to her artistic vision and storytelling prowess.

The Culmination at Cannes

As anticipation builds, the world waits with bated breath for the closing ceremony of the 78th Cannes Film Festival on May 24th. The coveted "Palme d'Or" for the best film in this category will be awarded, a moment that could mark the beginning of a new chapter in Piddubna's illustrious career.

"My Grandma the Parachutist" is more than a film; it is a bridge between generations and cultures, a celebration of a brave woman who found her way through the clouds both literally and metaphorically.

Editor: Emiliia Morozova