In 2022, Mantas Kvedaravičius went back to Ukraine, Mariupol, at the heart of the war, to be with the people he had met and filmed in 2015. Following his death, his producers and collaborators have put all their strength to continue sharing his work, his vision and his films. Having a PhD in anthropology, Mantas Kvedaravičius wanted his testimony as a filmmaker be free from the agitation of the media and the politicians. With huge force and sensitivity, “Mariupol 2” depicts life as it continues amidst the bombing, and it reveals images that convey both tragedy and hope.

The man repairs his fishing net and walks to the bridge. Two trams drive into each other, but no one is hurt, and the cables are put in place the same day. A small concert is given for the factory workers, and the sincere performance of the violinist makes them cry. Bombs fall into the sea, but no one notices them. Daily life is defined by things like bomb threats in Mariupol, a city in Ukraine east of Crimea, once inhabited by Greeks. This is a visually powerful homage to the city in times of a crisis, dedication to its poets and shoemakers.