Warfare Through a Digital Lens: Unconventional and Riveting

Read Time:3 Minute, 29 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Stay Online
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Genre: Drama
Year Released: 2023
Runtime: 1h 49m
Director(s): Yeva Strelnikova
Writer(s): Anton Skrypets, Eva Strelnikova
Cast: Elizaveta Zaitseva, Oleksandr Rudynskyy, Hordii Dzuibynskyi, Roman Liakh, Oleksandr Yarema, Olesya Zhurakivska, Yevhen Kovyrzanov, Iryna Tamim, Ekaterina Kisten
Language: Ukrainian with English subtitles
Where To Watch: Fantasia 2023 Film Festival – World Premiere July 22, 2023; for more information visit www.fantasiafestival.com

RAVING REVIEW: STAY ONLINE, a debut from the Ukrainian director Yeva Strelnikova. Here, we're plunged into a unique storytelling universe – not through the conventional camera lens, but through the screen of a computer. Strelnikova ropes us into the heart-rending journey of Katya, a brave heart navigating the turbulent landscape of war to help Dima, a boy searching for his lost family.

The narrative of STAY ONLINE strays from the beaten path of cinema and dares to voyage to relatively uncharted terrain. While the film may be confusing for some, the essence of witnessing the pandemonium of war through a digital viewpoint presents a fascinating twist. Strelnikova's narrative is injected with an undeniable momentum, keeping us on the edge of our seats as we ride the high tide of suspense and tension.

While many movies glamorize conflict, STAY ONLINE does not sugarcoat the bitter reality of war. The emotional onslaught might be intense, but the story's depth and riveting performances by the cast turn it into a force that pulls you into the film. As an art form, STAY ONLINE does more than tell a story; it's a fearless statement echoing the present Ukraine crisis, thus making it a vital part of our cinematic zeitgeist.

The role of Katya serves as the pumping heart of STAY ONLINE. She shines as a symbol of bravery in the backdrop of chaos, and her poignant interactions with Dima weave an inspiring tale of human resilience. Their communication, facilitated by the digital world, charges the narrative differently than I’m used to.

The plot of STAY ONLINE unfolds within the confines of a computer screen and incorporates elements from widely used digital platforms like Telegram and Facebook. This marriage of the screen life format and digital media crafts a narrative that keeps the audience engrossed. The film doesn't hold back from conveying genuine emotions, serving the audience a captivating storyline from start to finish.

STAY ONLINE has its uphill battles. The film's score becomes an overwhelming experience, overshadowing the narrative flow, and the shift from one platform to another can be jarring. Despite these speed bumps, the narrative's significance is upheld, and the film remains a compelling watch. These may be intentional actions to show the harsh differences between our digital world and the world we see outside.

At its heart, STAY ONLINE is a shout-out to the unbowed spirit of the Ukrainian populace. The shadow of grueling warfare paints a picture of hope, bravery, and survival. By shedding light on the hardships and determination of the people of Ukraine, it imparts a potent message: even during the bleakest moments, the human spirit will find a way to keep going.

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[photo courtesy of MAMAS FILM PRODUCTION]

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