Mykolai Sierga

Ukrainian musicians of all genres, from metal to opera, transform their passion for music into devotion to their country in this moving documentary. Beginning on the very first day of the Russian invasion, Soldiers of Song documents how the lives of its cast of Ukrainian musicians have irrevocably changed and how they use their musical talents to support themselves and their communities. Using shocking footage from the frontlines, this film reminds us not only of the ongoing tragedies that continue to happen during this war, but also of the resilience of Ukraine and its cultural forces. Here music functions not only to lift the spirits of the soldiers, but also as a cultural export to raise awareness of the war, a tool for raising humanitarian and military funds, and a valuable cultural artifact for everyday Ukrainians to rally around and protect. The musician’s commitment to their craft reminds us of the real power art has and the impact of beauty under catastrophic circumstances.

At 63, Samuel Bayer, the music video director for Nirvana and David Bowie, has seen almost everything. But a chance meeting with the soldiers of the Cultural Forces proves to be a true awakening. Facing his fears head-on, he travels to Ukraine to make a film about the people he has just met. What was planned as a standard documentary shoot will forever transform Bayer's perspective on the world.