Ukraine is actively working to revitalize its film industry, announcing plans for substantial cash rebates and the establishment of a culture fund aimed at attracting international film productions. According to Andrii Osipov, the head of the Ukrainian State Film Agency, the country has successfully completed 50 homegrown film projects from December 2024 through 2023, despite the ongoing challenges posed by the war following the Russian invasion in February 2022.
Osipov shared these insights during a session titled “Filming in Ukraine 2026” at the Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival in Tallinn, Estonia. He emphasized the remarkable achievement of finalizing 50 Ukrainian films this year, highlighting the resilience of the nation’s film sector. Many of these projects commenced before the war and received additional funding to complete their production.
Plans for a Culture Fund and Cash Rebates
Looking forward, Osipov announced a proposed 50 million euros (approximately $57.5 million) culture fund intended for films, theater productions, and other cultural initiatives. This initiative, proposed by President Volodymyr Zelensky, aims to provide crucial support for the arts and entertainment sector, with more details expected to be revealed soon.
He noted that the fund is designed to allocate about 70 to 90 percent of its resources to Ukrainian producers, with the remainder directed towards international co-productions. Osipov also expressed optimism regarding the launch of Ukraine’s first cash rebates program for international productions, which is set to offer a 25 percent rebate on qualifying expenses. An additional 5 percent rebate will be available if certain cultural criteria are met.
“We want the Ukrainian film industry to develop, and we want to grow together with the whole world,” Osipov stated.
Challenges for Filmmakers Amid Ongoing Conflict
Despite these positive developments, Osipov acknowledged the persistent challenges filmmakers face due to the ongoing conflict. He explained that production activities must be halted during air raids, and recent blackouts have further complicated the process, particularly in post-production, where the lack of electricity hampers the ability to render files.
Additionally, he highlighted a significant shortage of professionals in the industry, as many have been mobilized for military service. “Unfortunately, there have been cases where individuals were mobilized right from the film set,” he explained, underscoring the difficulties that the industry is currently navigating.
Oksana Chornobryvtseva, deputy head of the Association of Regional Film Commissions of Ukraine, also spoke at the event, outlining the support available for both Ukrainian and international productions. She noted that ten regional film commissions are operational across the country, striving to assist with production processes as effectively as possible, even amidst wartime conditions.
Chornobryvtseva cautioned that foreign filmmakers should be prepared for potential delays and logistical challenges related to the ongoing conflict. She explained that border crossings may take longer due to heightened security checks, and damaged infrastructure could disrupt transport schedules. Furthermore, she mentioned that “geolocation services may be unavailable during alerts,” which necessitates careful planning for routes and coordination.
As Ukraine seeks to fortify its film industry, the proposed initiatives and the commitment of its film professionals reflect a determination to sustain and expand the creative sector, despite the adversities faced. The coming year may bring new opportunities for collaboration and growth as the country opens its doors wider to international filmmakers.
