Mavka: The Forest Song

What stories does Ukraine tell when the world knows it mainly through the headlines of war?

Join us for a screening of the Ukrainian animated film Mavka: The Forest Song, inspired by Lesya Ukrainka's poetic drama. Set in an enchanted woodland where ancient spirits guard the sacred Heart of the Forest, the film brings Ukrainian mythology, folklore, and music to life through breathtaking animation. More than a fairy tale, Mavka asks a timeless question: Can compassion, trust, and love heal wounds that fear, violence, and painful memories have left behind?

Whether you are curious about Ukraine, interested in folklore and world literature, studying Slavic languages, or simply looking for a beautiful film, you will find something that speaks to you in Mavka. Children will delight in its magical creatures, music, and vibrant Ukrainian landscapes, while adults will appreciate its themes of love, sacrifice, forgiveness, and our relationship with the natural world.

The screening will begin with a brief introduction by Krystyna Golovakova, Lecturer of Russian and Ukrainian at Cornell University, exploring the film's literary origins, the cultural traditions that inspired it, and why this story continues to speak to audiences today.

Free and open to the public! Sponsored by the Ukrainian Program at Cornell.

In Ukrainian with English subtitles. Part of our "Campus Collaborations" program. Courtesy: Shout! Studios/Swank Motion Pictures