A Poem for Little People is a harrowing and intimate documentary that delves into the lives of those caught up in Ukraine's brutal conflict with Russia through the lens of an emergency evacuation team.
The film is the brainchild of director Ivan Sautkin, who not only directed but also volunteered on the front lines. Shot by Sautkin himself, this one-man operation offers a visceral and unfiltered look at the trauma and desperation faced by those fleeing the war zone.
The team's leader, Anton, remains an anchor of calm amidst chaos, guiding volunteers through perilous situations with steady hands. The emotional toll is palpable as they navigate treacherous terrain to rescue civilians, including elderly women, who are subjected to agonizing journeys to safety.
One heart-wrenching scene shows a woman stubbornly refusing evacuation from her property on the frontline, citing concerns for her paralysed brother and even her German shepherd. The team's patience and reassurance eventually win her over, but not before she wipes away tears in a poignant display of humanity amidst war.
Sautkin also profiles two women – friends and neighbours – living just outside the conflict zone. One, Zinaida, an 80-year-old whose keen observational skills allow her to gather vital intel on the Russian military's movements. Her friend Taisia finds solace in writing poetry that lambasts the invaders.
While these personal stories are poignant, they starkly contrast with the 'poem for little people' title, which initially seemed to suggest a more whimsical approach. The documentary deftly subverts this expectation, instead offering a searing portrait of war's human cost – and its unlikeliest heroes.
The film is the brainchild of director Ivan Sautkin, who not only directed but also volunteered on the front lines. Shot by Sautkin himself, this one-man operation offers a visceral and unfiltered look at the trauma and desperation faced by those fleeing the war zone.
The team's leader, Anton, remains an anchor of calm amidst chaos, guiding volunteers through perilous situations with steady hands. The emotional toll is palpable as they navigate treacherous terrain to rescue civilians, including elderly women, who are subjected to agonizing journeys to safety.
One heart-wrenching scene shows a woman stubbornly refusing evacuation from her property on the frontline, citing concerns for her paralysed brother and even her German shepherd. The team's patience and reassurance eventually win her over, but not before she wipes away tears in a poignant display of humanity amidst war.
Sautkin also profiles two women – friends and neighbours – living just outside the conflict zone. One, Zinaida, an 80-year-old whose keen observational skills allow her to gather vital intel on the Russian military's movements. Her friend Taisia finds solace in writing poetry that lambasts the invaders.
While these personal stories are poignant, they starkly contrast with the 'poem for little people' title, which initially seemed to suggest a more whimsical approach. The documentary deftly subverts this expectation, instead offering a searing portrait of war's human cost – and its unlikeliest heroes.
. I mean, the thought of people volunteering to go into harm's way to rescue others is insane 
. And the fact that they're dealing with this trauma on a daily basis... it's just too much for me 
. I love how the doc highlights these unsung heroes who are risking everything to help others. The personal stories, especially Zinaida and Taisia's, really touched my heart 
. It's crazy how they found ways to cope with their situation, like writing poetry or gathering intel 
. Anyway, this doco is definitely a must-watch if you haven't seen it yet 
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The fact that they're just ordinary people doin their part is honestly the most inspirin thing about this doc. And y'know what's wild? These civilians who r livin right next to the conflict zone are still findin ways to help & support each other, even in the darkest times 
Anton seems like a total rockstar for keepin everyone calm under fire, tho 
, they're like modern-day heroes! 
writing poetry & gathering intel to fight back against the invaders is so cool 
. anyhoo, this documentary is a must-watch for anyone looking to understand what's really going on in Ukraine right now... it's not easy to watch but it's SO important 
it's heartbreaking to see people like that woman refusing evacuation from her property - I mean, who wouldn't want to get their loved ones to safety ASAP? 
Taisia's poetry is so powerful too, like it's such a unique way to express her feelings about the war 
. I mean, who knew that poetry could be such a powerful tool to cope with trauma? 
. It's crazy how Sautkin's own experiences as a volunteer added so much authenticity to this film. One-man operation and all that 
anyway, i think the team leader, Anton, is a total hero for staying so calm in the face of all that chaos 
gotta respect her bravery 
. What struck me most was the humanity in it all – people crying for loved ones, struggling to find safety, and holding on to hope despite everything 
. It's a powerful reminder that even in the darkest times, kindness & compassion can be the greatest weapons 
. the way they've woven together these personal stories with the frontline action is so powerful. and that scene with the woman refusing evacuation... my heart went out to her 
. it's a harsh reality, but if it raises awareness and sparks empathy, then I'm all for it 
Genius, that Zinaida! And Taisia's poetry? Give me a break of the eye 
. War is harsh, no doubt, but these little people are showing us what real resilience looks like 
stats are wild - 75% of those who survived the conflict suffered PTSD 
And can we talk about Zinaida, the 80-yr-old woman who provides vital intel on Russian military movements? She's like a real-life spy 
it gives you an intimate feel to the story
The impact of war is so real & devastating... we need more awareness and action!