Film im Forum

Der lange Februar

Michael Stadnik’s documentary The Long February chronicles the Russian invasion of Ukraine on 24 February 2022 and the subsequent occupation of Bucha. One of the stories featured concerns the choir of St Andrew’s Church; Russian soldiers killed a singer, along with his entire family and neighbours.

Among other things, the film recounts the tragic story behind the murders – and how the family’s survivors must now live with the trauma. The film also reveals the previously unknown story of a Ukrainian police officer who remained on duty in Bucha during the Russian occupation.

Over a period of almost three years, director Michael Stadnik researched and reviewed private footage that offers a direct glimpse into the very personal perspectives of everyday life amid violence, fear and occupation. Through his personal connection to Ukraine – Stadnik has relatives in the neighbouring town of Bucha – the film provides a unique insight into the reality of life under Russian occupation.

The Schader Foundation is screening the film in collaboration with the Hessian Documentary Film Festival as part of the 7th LETsDOK Documentary Film Festival. The screening will be followed by a panel discussion featuring the director Michael Stadnik, political scientist Dr Anja Mihr, and Dr Stefan Meister, Head of the Center for Order and Governance in Eastern Europe, Russia and Central Asia, German Council on Foreign Relations. The panel discussion will be moderated by Dr Kirsten Mensch of the Schader Foundation. The event is open to all interested parties; admission is free.

Your contact person is Dr Stella Lorenz.

Please register in advance.