Ukrainian Filmmaker Feels Conflicted
The Associated Press, in collaboration with PBS’ “Frontline,” clinched the prestigious best documentary award at the British Academy Film Awards for their impactful film “20 Days in Mariupol.” Filmmaker Mstyslav Chernov expressed mixed emotions upon receiving the accolade, stating, “It’s a huge honor. It’s a huge responsibility.”
Documenting the Devastation in Mariupol
Chernov and the AP team spent three intense weeks in the besieged Ukrainian city of Mariupol during the early 2022 Russian invasion, bravely capturing the harrowing impact on civilians. Their work, including images of mass graves and the bombing of a maternity hospital, shed light on the grim realities of war.
Continued Struggle in Ukraine
As Ukraine faces ongoing bombardment, with Russia claiming victories in cities like Avdiivka, Chernov emphasized the importance of their storytelling, stating that their work “represents what is happening to Ukraine now.”
Power of Eyewitness Journalism
Producer Derl McCrudden highlighted the significance of the award, emphasizing the “power of eyewitness journalism” and the crucial role of journalists reporting from conflict zones. McCrudden stressed the importance of “telling truth to power” and reporting events faithfully.”