The creation of the documentary "Porcelain War" was a monumental challenge for its co-directors, Slava Leontyev and an American VFX supervisor. Despite their disparate backgrounds and the unprecedented circumstances brought about by the Russian invasion of Ukraine, they embarked on this ambitious project to showcase the beauty of Ukraine amidst the chaos of war. Overcoming logistical hurdles and language barriers, they managed to produce a powerful film that resonated deeply with audiences at Sundance and beyond.
This documentary not only highlights the resilience of Ukrainian civilians but also celebrates the artistry and culture that they strive to protect. Through innovative methods of remote collaboration and unconventional filmmaking techniques, the team succeeded in capturing over 500 hours of footage from multiple locations, culminating in an eight-minute standing ovation at Sundance and a nomination for the Oscars.
Overcoming Adversity: The Birth of a Unique Collaboration
The journey began when two individuals from vastly different worlds decided to collaborate on a documentary. One was a Ukrainian porcelain artist turned soldier, while the other was a U.S.-based visual effects expert. Neither had directed a documentary before, yet they were determined to tell a story that went beyond the typical portrayal of war. They aimed to highlight the cultural richness and beauty of Ukraine, emphasizing what people are fighting to preserve rather than focusing solely on destruction.
The initial challenges were immense. Separated by thousands of miles, a language barrier, and the ongoing conflict, communication was fraught with difficulties. Their first Zoom meeting was filled with the sounds of nearby artillery fire and a translator struggling to keep up. Despite these obstacles, they found common ground in their shared love for art and storytelling. With the help of volunteers who smuggled filming equipment into Ukraine, they established a makeshift film school via Zoom, teaching each other the intricacies of cinematography and lighting. This unique approach allowed them to bridge the gap between artistic vision and technical execution, transforming painters and artists into filmmakers.
From Remote Collaboration to Global Recognition
The production process was unconventional, with shooting and editing happening simultaneously due to the urgency of the situation. The team worked across four continents, coordinating efforts around the clock. Artists in Poland created hand-drawn animations to complement the live-action footage, bringing to life the idyllic past, harrowing present, and hopeful future of Ukraine. Meanwhile, translators and editors in Australia ensured that the narrative remained coherent and compelling.
After 21 months of relentless effort, the film was accepted into the prestigious Sundance Film Festival. For the first time, the co-directors met face-to-face, sharing an emotional reunion in Salt Lake City. The audience's response was overwhelming, with an eight-minute standing ovation that affirmed the film's impact. Winning the U.S. Documentary Grand Jury Prize and receiving an Oscar nomination further validated their hard work. What started as a distant dream became a reality, showcasing the power of human connection and creativity even in the darkest times.