Viktor: A new documentary that transcends sound and war
A fresh perspective on war through the eyes of a deaf man
The upcoming documentary “Viktor” is set to make waves at the Toronto Film Festival next month. Directed and produced by the acclaimed French filmmaker Olivier Sarbil, known for his Emmy-winning works “Retrograde” and “Mosul,” this film promises to offer a unique and poignant perspective on the early days of the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
The story of Viktor Korotovskyi
At the heart of the documentary is Viktor Korotovskyi, a young deaf man from Kharkiv. Raised on tales of war and a fan of samurai films, Viktor dreams of becoming a warrior. However, his attempts to enlist are repeatedly thwarted. Undeterred, Viktor embarks on a personal quest to find his place in a war he cannot hear, seeking purpose and fulfillment in a world that often seems out of reach.
A cinematic experience with a profound message
Olivier Sarbil’s vision for “Viktor” is to create a film that transcends language barriers and sparks global conversations about our shared humanity. “My hope is that this film transcends language barriers and sparks conversations worldwide about our shared humanity. It’s a testament to how embracing our differences can unlock profound purpose and fulfillment,” Sarbil said.
The power of empathy in documentary filmmaking
Shoshi Korman and Suzanne Nodale, co-managing directors of Cinephil, emphasize the importance of empathy in documentary filmmaking. “What makes for a powerful documentary is its capacity to cultivate empathy, for us to be truly immersed into the experience of others. This is a multilayered art form that Olivier and his incredible team have achieved with ‘Viktor.’ A slick blend of the cinematic experience fusing with the impactful lens on war allows us to discover a new kind of storytelling symphony for the big screen.”
A collaborative effort
“Viktor” is a collaborative effort, produced by Sarbil, Darren Aronofsky, Dylan Golden, Brendan Naylor, Sigrid Dyekjær, and Philippe Levasseur. The film is a co-production between Protozoa Pictures and Real Lava, with support from Impact Partners and TIME Studios. The executive producers include Ari Handel, Romain Bessi, Jenny Raskin, Geralyn White Dreyfous, Meadow Fund, Mike Beck, Loren Hammonds, Mariia Antypenko, Ilya Kaminsky, and Lani Levine. Co-executive producers include Lauren Haber, Kelsey Koenig, Jennifer Pelling, Marni E. J. Grossman, Katrina Vanden Heuvel, Lynne Benioff, Dave O’Connor, Kyle Hentschel, and Michael Erlinger.
The technical brilliance behind “Viktor”
Sarbil also took on the role of director of photography, ensuring that the visual storytelling is as compelling as the narrative. The film was edited by Atanas Georgiev, with sound design by Peter Albrechtsen, Nicolas Becker (an Oscar winner for “Sound of Metal”), and Heikki Kossi. The music, composed by Disasterpeace, adds another layer of depth to the film’s emotional resonance.
A new kind of storytelling symphony
“Viktor” is not just a documentary; it is a new kind of storytelling symphony that blends cinematic artistry with a powerful lens on war. It invites viewers to step into Viktor’s world, to see and feel the war through his eyes, and to understand the profound impact of his journey.
For those eager to delve deeper into Viktor’s story, you can watch the trailer and find more information here.
Final thoughts
“Viktor” is poised to be a significant addition to the world of documentary filmmaking. It challenges viewers to think beyond the conventional narratives of war and to consider the experiences of those who live on the fringes of sound and conflict. As the film makes its debut at the Toronto Film Festival, it is sure to leave a lasting impression on audiences worldwide, sparking conversations about empathy, purpose, and the human spirit.
In a world where stories of war are often told through the lens of those who can hear and speak, “Viktor” offers a refreshing and necessary perspective. It is a testament to the power of documentary filmmaking to bridge gaps, foster understanding, and inspire change.