As the conflict in Ukraine continues, the country’s media landscape adapts and evolves. 1+1 Media, a prominent Ukrainian broadcaster, is developing a new slate of original content, including the drama Enrique, the festive film The Guardians of Christmas, and the romantic comedy Probation Period. This initiative is spearheaded by Anna Gonchar, Head of Investment and Partnership Projects, who remains steadfast despite the challenges posed by the ongoing war.
Gonchar emphasized the resilience of her team in an exclusive interview, stating, “We’re still standing and still doing everything we can to keep on going.” Since the onset of Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022, developing original content has become increasingly challenging. Gonchar noted that while stress levels are high, the motivation to create compelling Ukrainian narratives remains strong.
New Projects Under Development
1+1 Media is launching three original projects aimed at diversifying its content offerings. The first, Enrique, is a gritty crime drama featuring Oleksandr Rudynskyi and Anastasia Pustovit. The series is based on true events in a small Ukrainian town where a young lawyer investigates a series of violent crimes committed by a man named Elvis, referred to as ‘Enrique’ in the series. The show addresses themes of complicity and the challenges faced by those seeking justice within a flawed system.
During the Content Warsaw Copro Pitch event, Enrique won the top prize in the Scripted Series category, further validating its potential. Gonchar remarked, “The pitch in Warsaw proved to us we are doing right,” highlighting Ukraine’s capacity to produce high-quality projects that resonate with international audiences. The series is produced in collaboration with Sfera Film and the joint venture streaming service KyivstarTV.
The second project, The Guardians of Christmas, is set for release on November 13, 2023. Directed by Oleksandr Kirienko, it marks 1+1’s first full-feature production. The film revolves around figures like Saint Nicholas and Santa Claus competing for the title of chief wizard of Christmas. With the backdrop of Ukrainians celebrating Christmas on December 25 for the first time in years, the story highlights cultural significance while providing a light-hearted narrative.
Gonchar noted, “It’s not only about sadness and murders,” referring to the importance of uplifting stories that help the nation cope with the ongoing conflict.
The third offering, Probation Period, is a romantic comedy about two individuals competing for the same job while navigating their contrasting personalities. Production is slated to begin in September, targeting a cinema release in early 2026.
Challenges of Production in Conflict Zones
Despite these promising developments, producing content in Ukraine remains fraught with danger. Gonchar mentioned that the production of Enrique was delayed multiple times due to air raid sirens, a stark reminder of the realities faced by filmmakers in the region. Recently, attacks in Kyiv resulted in the deaths of 17 individuals, underscoring the risks associated with film production in an active war zone.
International collaborations have also been affected, as many European countries remain hesitant to engage in co-productions due to safety concerns. Gonchar explained, “European countries are a bit afraid to work here, which is 100% understandable, but we are working and living here, so it’s possible with security precautions in place.”
Nevertheless, 1+1 Media is pursuing international partnerships and is developing two series and a feature film for co-production. One of the series is set to be pitched at the Series Mania Co-Pro Pitching Sessions in Lille, France, next year. “Co-production is the main target and goal now,” Gonchar stated, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in expanding Ukraine’s media presence despite current limitations.
Gonchar remains optimistic, asserting, “We understand we have brilliant ideas, but are limited in what we can do.” The ongoing conflict has created unique challenges, but it has also spurred innovation and creativity within Ukraine’s entertainment industry. As 1+1 Media forges ahead, its commitment to producing impactful content serves as a testament to the resilience of the Ukrainian spirit.
