In a recent announcement, Anna Machukh, CEO of the Odesa International Film Festival (OIFF), disclosed the decision to relocate the 15th edition of the event from Odesa to Kyiv in 2024. The move is attributed to the ongoing safety concerns in Odesa due to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Safety Paramount: Machukh emphasized safety as the primary consideration for relocating to Kyiv, citing the city’s robust air defense system. “There is no safe place now in Ukraine, but Kyiv has more safety for people, for audiences,” she stated. “Especially for international guests, it [Kyiv] will be more comfortable.”
International Appeal: Machukh expressed hopes of attracting a diverse international audience, including journalists, guests, volunteers, festival managers, programmers, sales directors, and distribution companies. Direct trains from Warsaw to Kyiv remain available, facilitating international participation.
Financial Struggles: The festival has faced financial challenges amid the war effort, with minimal state funding in the previous year. Despite this, Creative Europe Media and international sponsors, such as Mastercard, Samsung, and Pernod Ricard, have provided support. Machukh acknowledged, “the budget is very limited” compared to pre-invasion levels.
Festival Overview: OIFF comprises a national competition program for Ukrainian films of various genres and an international and European competition program for European films across genres. The festival has been recognized and supported by other international events, including the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival and the Berlinale’s European Film Market.
Challenges in Film Production: Machukh acknowledged the challenges in finding dramatic titles for the national competition, particularly in the realm of fictional films. Ukrainian documentary films have thrived post-invasion, with “20 Days In Mariupol” emerging as a leading Oscar contender.
Looking Ahead: Machukh expressed optimism about the upcoming edition, hoping to screen festival favorites from the year to local audiences. Despite the difficulties, she anticipates at least six Ukrainian fiction films for the festival.
The 15th edition of OIFF is scheduled to take place in Kyiv from July 12 to 20, 2024.
