Watch Orange Revolution

Orange Revolution is a 2007 Ukrainian film directed by Oleksandr Kirienko. It is a political drama that depicts the highly contentious presidential elections that took place in Ukraine in 2004, and the subsequent ‘Orange Revolution’ – a series of protests and demonstrations that ultimately led to the overthrow of the country’s authoritarian regime.

The film begins on the eve of the election, as the two main candidates – the incumbent, Viktor Yanukovych, and the opposition leader, Viktor Yushchenko – prepare to face off in what promises to be one of the most significant moments in Ukraine’s history. The tension is palpable, and emotions are running high on both sides.

As the votes are counted and the results start to come in, it becomes clear that there has been widespread fraud and electoral malpractice. Yanukovych is declared the winner, but Yushchenko is adamant that the election has been rigged, and calls on his supporters to take to the streets in protest.

What follows is a gripping, often tense portrayal of the mass mobilisation that took place in the weeks and months that followed. Thousands of people from all walks of life – students, workers, pensioners – poured into the streets of Kyiv and other major cities, demanding that their voices be heard and the government be held to account.

The film does an excellent job of capturing the energy and passion of those involved in the Orange Revolution. The protests are depicted as a largely peaceful affair, with people singing, chanting and waving the orange flags that came to symbolize the movement. However, there are also moments of violence and brutality, as the authorities attempt to crack down on the demonstrations and maintain their grip on power.

The characterisation is also strong, with both Yanukovych and Yushchenko portrayed as complex figures with their own strengths and weaknesses. Yanukovych, in particular, is shown to be a shrewd and calculating politician, willing to do whatever it takes to stay in power. Yushchenko, on the other hand, is presented as more of an idealist, a man who truly believes in the need for change and is willing to put himself on the line to achieve it.

One of the film’s most striking features is its use of archival footage from the actual events. This helps to give the film a sense of authenticity and immediacy, and helps to drive home the sheer scale and intensity of the protests.

Overall, Orange Revolution is an engaging and thought-provoking film that sheds light on a pivotal moment in Ukrainian history. It is a testament to the power of ordinary people to effect change, and a reminder of the importance of standing up for what you believe in, no matter what the odds.