Watch The Earth Is Blue as an Orange

"The Earth Is Blue as an Orange" is a Ukrainian documentary film released in 2020 that offers an intimate and mesmerizing glimpse into the lives of a brave and creative family living amidst the ongoing conflict in Eastern Ukraine. Directed by Iryna Tsilyk, this thought-provoking film explores the power of imagination and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

The documentary centers around the Gladka family, whose daily lives are significantly shaped by the ongoing war in Ukraine. Ganna Gladka, a single mother of four wonderful children, lives in a small village near the front lines of the conflict. Despite the persistent danger and chaos surrounding them, Ganna's family seeks solace and healing through a shared passion for filmmaking.

Ganna shows incredible strength and determination as she leads her children on a remarkable filmmaking journey, which becomes both an escape from the horrors of war and a means of preserving their memories during this challenging time. Armed with their camera, the family sets out to create an unusual and heartwarming film, aptly titled "The Earth Is Blue as an Orange".

As the documentary unfolds, viewers witness the family's creative process, seeing glimpses of their daily lives as they capture heartwarming and candid moments. The film encompasses the beauty and power of storytelling as a means of catharsis, healing, and resilience. Through their lens, the Gladka family gives voice to their experiences, transforming the pain and uncertainty of war into a tangible and artistic medium.

"The Earth Is Blue as an Orange" beautifully depicts the ways in which creativity and imagination can act as a form of therapy during times of turmoil. The family's determination to craft a fictional film against the backdrop of a very real conflict demonstrates their unyielding spirit and refusal to let external circumstances define their lives. Their story is a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the ability to find hope and beauty amidst the darkest of times.

Ganna's son, Myroslava, emerges as a central figure in the film. At once a talented filmmaker and a devoted sister, Myroslava captures the bravery of her family as they navigate the harsh realities of war while still maintaining their dreams and aspirations. Through her lens, she unfolds the complex layers of life in a war zone, showcasing the emotional toll it takes on her family and community.

"The Earth Is Blue as an Orange" offers a profound exploration of the impact of war on ordinary lives while highlighting the extraordinary strength and resilience of individuals. With powerful visuals and emotionally charged moments, the film masterfully draws viewers into the world of the Gladka family, inviting us to reflect on the universal power of storytelling and the importance of preserving memories.

The performances by the Gladka family members, particularly Ganna Gladka, Stanislav Gladky, and Anastasiia Trofymchuk, are captivating. Their natural charm and authenticity allow the audience to connect with them on a deeply emotional level. Through their experiences, the film highlights how creativity and art can serve as a form of resistance and a vehicle for hope even in the most challenging circumstances.

"The Earth Is Blue as an Orange" is an eye-opening and poignant film that showcases the resiliency of the human spirit amidst adversity. It is a moving testament to the power of storytelling, the importance of family, and the unshakeable belief in the transformative nature of art. Whether or not you are familiar with the conflict in Ukraine, this documentary will leave an indelible mark on your heart and soul.

The Earth Is Blue as an Orange is a documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 15 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.3 and a MetaScore of 78.