Ukrainian Actor and Officer Volodymyr Rashchuk: Battling Real and Fictional Foes

In a world where reality and fiction often collide, Ukrainian actor and officer Volodymyr Rashchuk finds himself at the intersection of art and duty. Known for his roles in films such as "The Border Guards" and "Witch of Konotop, " Rashchuk has traded film sets for the frontlines, defending his homeland amidst a full-scale invasion.

From Stage to Battlefield: A Journey of Transformation

Volodymyr Rashchuk's career took an unexpected turn when he joined the National Guard of Ukraine on February 24, 2022. "Every time I come home, I try to hide my military uniform, " Rashchuk muses, reflecting on the emotional weight of his dual life. Yet, despite the harsh realities of war, his passion for acting remains strong.

The "Kakhovka Object": Mixing Art and Reality

Currently, Rashchuk is on a creative break from the battlefield, returning to Kyiv for a film project titled "Kakhovka Object." This groundbreaking Ukrainian horror film delves into a universe where the past's horrors resurface. "I joked that nothing has changed: on the front, I kill zombies, and in 'civilian life' – as well, " Rashchuk quips, emphasizing the therapeutic nature of art in juxtaposition to war.

"When we take money away from the army to make movies, that's a crime, " Rashchuk asserts, highlighting the delicate balance between funding art and warfare.

The War's Impact on Personal Ties

The war hasn't just shaped Rashchuk's professional life but deeply impacted his personal relationships. With his father residing in Donetsk and estranged due to political differences, the actor faces emotional battles on multiple fronts. "We decided not to touch on these topics, " he recalls, reflecting on the painful divide.

Language as an Act of Resistance

Rashchuk's transformation is evident not only in his transition from acting to military service but also in his commitment to the Ukrainian language. Having switched from Russian to Ukrainian post-invasion, he views language as a critical identity marker. "For me, it is the language of the enemy, " he states emphatically.

As Rashchuk continues to navigate the complex theatre of war and cinema, his story is a compelling testament to resilience and the enduring power of identity.

Editor: Emiliia Morozova