Cate Blanchett, the Australian actress and multiple award winner known for her Oscars, Golden Globes, and BAFTAs, recently expressed strong admiration for Ukrainian filmmaker Marina Er Gorbach. Blanchett sent a heartfelt letter to Er Gorbach after viewing her short film Rotation, which is part of The Displacement Film Fund initiative aimed at supporting Ukrainian creators amid conflict.
Collaboration and Media Engagement Following Cannes Announcement
Marina Er Gorbach revealed in a recent interview that her interaction with Cate Blanchett began in early March, leading to a joint press conference in May at the Cannes Film Festival. During the event, the lineup of directors and concepts for upcoming films were unveiled. The two filmmakers engaged in several interviews across major media platforms, discussing projects that had yet to be completed.
“They called me at the end of March. In May we had a press conference in Cannes, when the names of the directors and the concept of future films were already announced. We were sitting on the main media platform for cinematographers and talked about films that don’t exist yet. It was a very interesting experience… With Kate we immediately had several media appearances, a series of interviews. Then I started working, and later Kate watched the finished film and I received a very beautiful letter from her” – Marina Er Gorbach
Challenges in Choosing Filming Locations Amid Ongoing Conflict
Initially, Blanchett’s foundation debated whether filming should be moved outside Ukraine, considering the safety concerns in the region. However, Er Gorbach confirmed at the Cannes press conference her intention to return to Ukraine after the festival, affirming the importance of shooting within the country despite the risks involved.
“The foundation was still negotiating with me that perhaps we don’t need to shoot in Ukraine after all. All this can be done in Europe. And I confirmed at the press conference that after the festival I will go to Ukraine” – Marina Er Gorbach
Filming Rotation Amid War Zone Realities
The short film Rotation was shot using Svema film stock produced in Shostka, a city in the Sumy region currently exposed to Russian shelling. The cast includes Nadiya Karpova and Oleksandr Piskunov, actors recognized for their previous roles in Ukrainian cinema. The film centers on the story of a young Ukrainian woman who leaves her civilian life to serve during wartime, seeking support under harsh new conditions.
Upcoming Festivals and Premieres for Rotation
Rotation is scheduled to have its world premiere at the Rotterdam International Film Festival (IFFR 2026), set to take place from January 29 to February 8. The Ukrainian premiere is projected for the autumn of 2026, marking significant milestones for the film’s international and domestic exposure.
“I haven’t seen other films, just as other directors haven’t seen my ‘Rotation’. We will all sit together and look at a cross-section of creative thinking within the given framework. I am very curious to see what the Ukrainian story will look like in this configuration, in this context” – Marina Er Gorbach
Wider Context of Ukrainian Cinema and Film Initiatives
Marina Er Gorbach’s engagement with international media and festivals forms part of a growing effort to highlight Ukrainian stories in global cinema. These activities underscore the resilience and creativity of filmmakers working amidst conflict and uncertainty. Additional cultural projects, such as the Ukrainian animated film The Game by Iryna Hurvych, will also be showcased at the Rotterdam International Film Festival, illustrating the country’s diverse cinematic contributions.
Notably, applications are open for the X National Film Award “Golden Dzyga,” which includes 23 categories and new serial awards, to celebrate Ukrainian cinema’s achievements in an evolving cultural landscape. Furthermore, the Ukrainian short film Brama Europy recently premiered at Kyiv’s 54th Molodist International Film Festival, exploring themes of war, memory, and family relationships.
Significance and Future Outlook for Ukrainian Filmmakers
The collaboration between Cate Blanchett and Marina Er Gorbach shines a spotlight on the urgency and importance of supporting artistic expression in Ukraine during a time of upheaval. Blanchett’s recognition of the film Rotation amplifies international awareness of the challenges Ukrainian directors face, while also valuing their compelling storytelling. As these filmmakers prepare for upcoming premieres and festivals, their work will continue to influence perceptions of Ukraine’s present struggles and cultural identity on a global stage.
