The documentary 20 Days in Mariupol by Journalist Mstyslav Chernov follows a more traditional framework of storytelling. In doing so, Chernov masters a narrative that is very intentional and emotional, with scenes that accurately relay the devastation and heroism of the Mariupol community.
The theme of the documentary is war, being that the ‘plot’ is centered around Russia’s siege of Mariupol, but there is also a theme of truth. Truth, being the driver of this story which breaks the Ukrainans people’s silence (through the heroic storytelling of Chernov), reveals to outsiders the reality of what is happening to these communities and people. The exposition is the silence before Mariupol is attacked, before the pain and destruction. The rising action is the attack by Russia while the climax is the aftermath, when around every corner people are met with death and destruction. The turning point is Chernov’s and his team’s decision to continue their coverage and brave the danger so that Mariupol’s story is told.
Although Chernov is behind the camera, he is experiencing everything that is happening on screen which translates into his perspective and storytelling in accompaniment of the visuals. This is a story that is very much his, but also one that connects to the conflict as a whole and the Ukrainian people. That being said the ‘end’ or denouement of the documentary is Chernov and his team leaving Ukraine despite the ongoing war, but they have a job, a duty to release their footage and bare the truths.
Overall, I think this film is a true and very raw piece of journalism that is very appropriate in its visuals and exposure of graphic content. While watching, I had to turn away for certain parts or pause it, and most definitely cried during more than one instance. I think that reaction is telling of really well done reporting and something that journalism needs more of. This perspective of journalism, war and humanitarian crisis’ especially, is really heavy and deep, but these are truths that we have created and must confront in order to help/save ourselves and each other. Additionally, the authors point to now having a record of the atrocities that have been carried out in Ukraine and the potential impact their footage will have when the war becomes history and winners and losers inflict stories and their truths.