Unyielding Resilience of Ukraine’s Musicians Showcased in Ryan Smith’s New Film, Premiering June 13 with Cast and Crew in Attendance
The highly anticipated documentary “Soldiers of Song” will make its world premiere on Thursday, June 13, at 5:30 PM at the AMC Theater 19th St. East 6 in New York, NY, as part of the 2024 Tribeca Film Festival. Directed and produced by Ryan Smith, in collaboration with a courageous Ukrainian production crew and Executive Produced by the Governor George Pataki Leadership Center, the film delves into the profound impact of music on Ukrainian culture during a time of war.
“Soldiers of Song” features some of Ukraine’s most beloved musicians, including Slava Vakarchuk of Okean Elzy, Andriy Khlyvnyuk of Boombox, and pop singer Svitlana Tarabarova. The documentary reveals the experiences of life under the shadow of Russian aggression, weaving together narratives of resilience, hope, and healing. Through intimate interviews and personal narratives, the film captures how these musicians bravely navigate harrowing challenges to inspire unity and courage.
Ryan Smith, a New York native, continues his acclaimed work with this film, following his Emmy Award-winning “NFL 360: Who If Not Us,” which chronicled football players in Ukraine volunteering for military service. “Music has the remarkable ability to forge connections across cultures. We feel that ‘Soldiers of Song’ will offer audiences a deeper understanding of the Ukrainian experience, fostering empathy and connection with their struggles,” said Smith.
The Governor George Pataki Leadership Center, which initiated a Ukraine Relief Fund in 2022, plays a pivotal role in the film’s production. The fund provides Ukrainians with essential resources like housing units, heating generators, and medical supplies. Governor Pataki, who serves as the Executive Producer, will attend the premiere along with other special guests. “In times of crisis, music has the power to heal, unite, and inspire,” said Pataki. “‘Soldiers of Song’ showcases the unwavering courage and resilience of Ukraine’s musicians, serving as a testament to the human spirit’s triumph over oppression.”
Spanning the entirety of Ukraine, the production team embedded cameras with musicians on the frontlines, capturing their raw experiences. Despite challenges like air raid sirens and power outages, post-production was completed in six months. The film also features a poignant rendition of Metallica’s “Nothing Else Matters” by Svitlana Tarabarova, symbolizing the indomitable spirit of the Ukrainian people.
Tickets for the premiere can be purchased from the Tribeca Festival website. For more information about “Soldiers of Song” and its release, visit https://www.soldiersofsongfilm.com.