First cinema opens in a small community since the start of the full-scale war
A renovated cinema called Ukraine has appeared in Ladyzhyn, Vinnytsia region. This is the first time in Ukraine that such a cultural institution has been established in a small community during the period of full-scale war. The restoration of the cinema, which had been closed for four years, was initiated by the “Watch Ukrainian!” Association and financially supported by the “MHP-Gromadi” Charitable Foundation. The cinema is intended to serve as a cultural platform, bringing together residents from surrounding communities and villages.
“Today, reopening the cinema is as significant as its original opening. For filmmakers, it’s always a cause for celebration. This moment follows several years of the ‘Cinema for Victory!’ tour. When we brought films to Ladyzhyn in our movie van, we saw firsthand how much the locals love cinema and how strong the demand is. That’s why the idea to restore the cinema emerged. I invite all residents of Ladyzhyn to visit the renovated cinema, watch Ukrainian films, and support one another,” shared Andrii Rizol, producer and chairman of the “Watch Ukrainian!” Association.
The “MHP-Gromadi” Charitable Foundation provided nearly UAH 1 million in financial support for the cinema’s restoration, covering the purchase of special projection equipment. This funding was granted on the condition that a social component be included—offering discounted rates for military personnel, veterans, and the families of fallen soldiers, as well as educational programs for schoolchildren.
“The goal of our Foundation is to support the development of communities. Small towns and villages should have access to the same facilities as cities and regional centers, and a cinema is one of those essential places. Today, it’s not just about entertainment; it’s about making new Ukrainian films accessible to the people of the Ladyzhyn community,” said Maryana Narozhna, head of the Social Development Group in the Vinnytsia region for the “MHP-Gromadi” Charitable Foundation.
On the eve of the cinema’s opening, July 24, a Day of Ukrainian Cinema was celebrated as part of the National Tour “Cinema for Victory!” In the morning, children watched the animated film “Mavka. Forest Song” (Film.UA Group). The second screening, “Another Franko” (Ganzafilm), was presented by Akhtem Seitablayev, ambassador of the “Cinema for Victory!” tour and a Ukrainian actor and director. In the evening, residents of Ladyzhyn enjoyed the film “My Carpathian Grandfather” (Insite-Media, Andriy Suyarko). All three screenings were sold out.
“The cinema is a powerful tool for self-identification. History shows us that during particularly difficult times, culture and art are crucial—they shape our thoughts, environment, and values. That’s why the enemy targets libraries, schools, and cinemas. Opening a cinema in Ukraine during a full-scale war signifies our strength and our commitment to preserving our culture,” emphasized Akhtem Seitablayev, Ukrainian actor and director.
The revamped “Ukraine” cinema is managed by “Aquilon” Municipal Enterprise, which has also contributed to the creation of new jobs.
The “Cinema for Victory!” project was initiated by the Office of the President of Ukraine, the State Cinema of Ukraine, and the “Watch Ukrainian!” Association, with support from the “MHP-Gromadi” Foundation. The project was carried out in collaboration with the Armed Forces of Ukraine Strategic Communications (AFU StratCom), and received assistance from the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine, regional military-civilian administrations, the National Guard of Ukraine, and the National Police of Ukraine.