93, Kuindzhi

93, Kuindzhi is a first-person narrative vignette about Artyom, an 18-year-old from Donbas. The story takes place in March 2022, after his father is drafted and sent to the front. Artyom leaves his studies behind and volunteers in Mariupol despite his mother’s fears; he never takes up a weapon.

Artyom’s story

Past and present intertwine in an internal dialogue as Artyom confronts his fears, doubts and guilt, and considers the choices he made and the ones he did not. The story focuses on a traumatizing environment, inner conflict and the search for a place in the world. Its plot and setting draw on real events, while intentionally combining details rather than interpreting or appropriating specific personal stories.

Sound and presentation

Radio conversations, distant explosions, footsteps, rustling, creaks and silence shape the soundscape. The realistic visual presentation conveys the weight of the environment. Artyom is voiced by rapper Husky, and the fighter known by the callsign Bear is voiced by Dima OM.