20 Days in Mariupol

20 Days in Mariupol is a harrowing documentary that captures the experiences of Ukrainian citizens during the early days of the Russian invasion in 2022, specifically focusing on the besieged city of Mariupol. Filmed by Mstyslav Chernov, an Associated Press journalist who was one of the last international reporters in the city, the documentary presents an unfiltered look at the brutal realities of war, including devastating footage of civilian casualties, bombings, and families grappling with unimaginable losses. What makes 20 Days in Mariupol particularly impactful is its raw and immediate storytelling. Chernov’s camera captures both the larger scale destruction and the intimate moments of resilience, hope, and despair among residents. The film not only records the conflict but also highlights the challenges faced by journalists trying to bear witness to atrocities in the middle of chaos. At times, Chernov and his team are targeted as they try to document the truth, underscoring the peril journalists face when covering active war zones. The documentary's strength lies in its unfiltered, journalistic approach, which places viewers directly into the thick of the conflict. It challenges audiences to confront the human cost of war and to witness the resilience of people who endure such hardship.