Ukraine Submits 'Traces' Documentary for 2027 Oscars

Ukraine has selected the documentary "Traces" to represent the country in the international feature film category at the 2027 Academy Awards. The film, directed by Alisa Kovalenko and Marysia Nikitiuk, focuses on the experiences of Ukrainian women who have spoken out after surviving sexual assault during the ongoing conflict with Russia. The Ukrainian Academy Awards Committee announced this decision, describing "Traces" as an "honest and profound" portrayal of resilience and the fight against silence.

The selection of "Traces" highlights the power of cinema to address critical social and political issues, particularly those arising from armed conflict. The documentary aims to shed light on the often-unseen traumas faced by civilians, specifically women, in war-torn regions. By bringing these stories to an international platform like the Academy Awards, the filmmakers and the Ukrainian committee hope to foster greater awareness and empathy for the victims of sexual violence in wartime.

This submission places "Traces" among a competitive field of international films vying for an Oscar nomination. The international feature film category is designed to recognize cinematic achievements from countries outside the United States, requiring films to be primarily in a non-English language. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences will review submissions from numerous countries, with a shortlist and eventual nominations announced closer to the ceremony.

The 2027 Academy Awards ceremony is scheduled to honor films released in 2026. The selection process for Ukraine's submission involved a committee tasked with identifying a film that best represents Ukrainian cinema and its contemporary narratives on the global stage. "Traces" was chosen for its artistic merit and its urgent, timely subject matter, reflecting the profound impact of the war on Ukrainian society and the courage of those who have endured and are speaking out against atrocities.

The film's narrative centers on women who have chosen to break their silence, confronting the perpetrators and seeking justice. This act of defiance and storytelling is central to the documentary's message of empowerment and the pursuit of truth. The committee's endorsement underscores the film's potential to resonate with international audiences and contribute to a broader global conversation about war crimes and the importance of supporting survivors.