In a sea of high-rise buildings on the outskirts of Kyiv, Natalia lies in her bathtub in the middle of her lush garden, gazing up at the airplanes flying over her home. The place is an oasis—full of life and laughter, with goats running free, fruit trees, cats, hens, two ex-husbands, and a grandchild. An unlikely paradise. But Natalia’s land is highly sought after, and time and again she faces pressure to sell, tear down the house, and level the garden. With her ringing laughter, she refuses to give in. Instead, she keeps cultivating vegetables and flowers between the concrete towers.

When Russia attacks Ukraine in 2022, Natalia still refuses to leave her home. Kitty, the woman she lives with, grows worried and starts planning a quick escape from the country. Natalia, however, prepares to stay—checking the shelter, stocking up on food, and boarding up the windows.

Flowers of Ukraine is a moving and visually stunning documentary. But what truly makes it special is not only its thoughtful cinematography, but the tender, vivid portrait that director Adelina Boret has crafted of Natalia.

– Mia Rogersdotter Gran