Mavka: The Forest Song is a stunning animated movie inspired by a classic fairy tale by Ukrainian poet Lesya Ukrainka. The tale explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the deep-rooted traditions of Ukrainian folklore. The film, which has captivated millions, is not just an artistic endeavor; it plays a vital role in maintaining and promoting Ukrainian culture in a rapidly changing world
The enchanting narrative revolves around Mavka, a forest spirit who is torn between her love for Lukas, a human musician, and her duty to protect the magical forest from destruction. As Mavka and Lukas navigate their blossoming romance, they confront the looming threat of industrialization and exploitation of the natural world, symbolizing the broader struggles faced by Ukrainian society in preserving its cultural and environmental heritage.
The film intricately weaves in elements of Ukrainian folklore, showcasing mythical creatures and traditions, such as the deep-rooted connection between humans and nature found in local legends. Mavka’s journey serves as an allegory for the resilience of Ukrainian identity, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding cultural narratives and the environment amidst external pressures, thus reinforcing a sense of national pride and cultural continuity in a modern context.
With its beautiful animation, rich storytelling, and cultural themes, the film has resonated with audiences worldwide, thanks in part to Chemonics’ role as convener.
The creation of the film brought together Ukraine’s leading production house, Hollywood writer/director mentors, and Ukrainian creators, who worked together to bring the film to life. Since its release in 2023, Mavka has attracted over 1.2 million viewers in Ukraine, setting a box office record for any Ukrainian movie released since 1991. It sold more than 300,000 tickets in France during its opening week, more than any other movie, and was shown on over 300 big screens in Italy, generating nearly 35,000 admissions in just four days. Continuing its success, Mavka became the #1 family film in the Netherlands and ranked among the top 5 highest-grossing films in Spain. Now streaming on Hulu, the film has grossed USD 20,000,000 worldwide, demonstrating how Chemonics’ support of mission-driven storytelling can make a lasting, global impact.
