Ukraine’s Loved and Lost Electronic Scene Explored in New Documentary

A new documentary shedding light on how Ukraine’s once-thriving electronic scene survives current war times will debut next month. Titled Ukraine: Nightlife in Resistance, the film follows the narratives of six electronic community members to explore how Ukraine’s clubland turned upside down. 

Drag performer and bouncer Vlad Shasts, electronic musician Heinali, and bar owner Garik Pledov are just some of the protagonists that will guide viewers through Ukraine’s loved and lost electronic scene.

Underground techno clubs are also part of the picture, as the teams behind Kyiv’s Closer and Module make an appearance. 

Beyond the eye-opening stories, Ukraine: Nightlife in Resistance will dive deep into Kyiv’s status as a club culture pillar. The documentary also examines how the Russian invasion’s long-lasting effects could shape the electronic scene’s future.

Co-produced by clubbing culture magazine Resident Advisor and Ukrainian production company TABOR, Ukraine: Nightlife in Resistance will premiere in Berlin on April 5th. London’s Barbican Centre will host the documentary on April 11th. 

The premieres will also feature live Q&A sessions with the documentary’s protagonists.