“Resisting totalitarian aggression is necessary, but holding onto your humanity amid the onslaught is the ultimate pursuit of good. The making of this film — a film full of pathos and violence, porcini and dragonlets — is in and of itself this pursuit.
For its unwavering voice from inside the brutal war in Ukraine calling us to care about those who would sacrifice their lives to defend their humanity and ours, and since at present there is no Sundance Jury Award for best dog, the U.S. Grand Jury Prize: Documentary goes to Porcelain War.” — Sundance Film Festival Jury Statement (2024)
We open Porcelain War this Friday at the Monica Film Center. Co-directors Brendan Bellomo and Slava Leontyev will participate in Q&A’s following the 7:30 PM screenings on November 29 and 30. Film critic Robert Abele will moderate the Saturday Q&A.
“A united resistance effort: war balanced by love, bloodshed by beauty.” ~ PORCELAIN WAR opens Friday.
“Porcelain War masterfully illustrates the enduring power of art in the face of adversity.” ~ Awards Daily
“A combination of whimsy and devastation.” ~ Wall Street Journal
“This doc’s depiction of Ukraine war horrors will knock you down.” ~ TheWrap
“A united resistance effort: war balanced by love, bloodshed by beauty.” ~ Variety
“A powerful testament to the resilience of the artistic spirit.” ~ Toronto Star
“One more reminder of the vital force that art brings.” ~ RogerEbert.com
“Cinematic essays take many forms: few are as fragile and contemplative as Porcelain War.” ~ Screen Daily