Ukrainian Film "Time Ribbon" Competes for Golden Bear at Berlinale 2025

In an unexpected twist of cinematic fate, Kateryna Gornostai's documentary "Time Ribbon" has made a historic entry into the main competition at the Berlin International Film Festival 2025. This breathtaking film, vying for the prestigious Golden Bear, immerses viewers into the stark realities of school life in Ukraine amidst the ongoing war.

A Historic Moment for Ukrainian Cinema

For the first time in over a quarter-century, a Ukrainian film graces the primary competition at Berlinale, marking a significant milestone for the nation’s film industry. The last occurrence was more than 25 years ago, a testament to the rarity and importance of this achievement.

Unveiling the Story Without Words

"Time Ribbon" is unique in its approach. It doesn't narrate stories or feature interviews. Instead, it plunges audiences into the heart of Ukrainian schools during the conflict, offering a poignant glimpse into a world where education perseveres against the odds. "Our film is not about recounting individual tales; it’s about immersing the audience in the ongoing reality, " the creators shared.

The Weight of Responsibility

For director Kateryna Gornostai, participation in the Berlinale is both a dream and a challenge. "This is a major responsibility, " she admits, "Our film stands among global giants, which is incredibly daunting." Yet, the opportunity to share the film on such a prestigious platform is a chance to remind the world of the ongoing struggles in Ukraine.

Beyond Borders: A Message of Resilience

Initiated by the public association "Osvitoria" and produced by 2Brave Productions, the project aims to highlight the exorbitant price Ukraine's children and educators pay for the fundamental human right to education. Zoia Lytvyn, founder of "Osvitoria, " emphasized the film’s message: "We want to remind the world that the war in Ukraine continues."

A Journey Through War-Torn Schools

The documentary captures the educational journey across various regions, from Cherkasy and Kharkiv to Borodianka and Bucha. It centralizes around the tragic event in Romny, Sumy region, where a school was destroyed by a direct hit, resulting in the loss of staff members.

Awarded the Eurimages New Lab Outreach Award 2024, the "Time Ribbon" team secured €30, 000, reinforcing their mission to spread awareness and inspire change through their compelling narrative.

Editor: Yana Davydiuk