President Volodymyr Zelensky (one of only three Jewish world leaders) has become the iconic symbol of Ukraine. His choice to remain in the country when the Russians invaded in 2022 changed the expected course of the conflict. Codirected by documentary filmmaker Yves Jeuland, French journalist Ariane Chemin and historian Lisa Vapné, ZELENSKY provides rare access to archival photos and video footage, plus interviews with people who have known, worked and performed with Zelensky throughout his kaleidoscopic life and colorful careers.
Growing up in 1980s Ukraine, young Zelensky (a hyperactive kid) was indoctrinated by his Soviet communist education—an unusual background given his resistance to Russia now—but then he discovered performing, traveling throughout Russia in a comedy troupe before returning to Kyiv to as a successful entertainer.
Through astonishing footage and candid interviews, including with Zelensky himself, ZELENSKY lays out the path of his double metamorphosis: shedding both his communist and comedy backgrounds to become the president of independent Ukraine. The synergistic partnership of a filmmaker, journalist and historian yields a not-to-be-missed portrait of an often-seen but barely known public figure ubiquitous on the world stage.
Director Bio: View on IMDB (Jeuland/Chemin/Vapné)
Yves Jeuland is a French documentary filmmaker and creator of numerous television films about politics and prominent public figures.
Ariane Chemin is a journalist who has been writing for the daily newspaper “Le Monde” since 2011.
Lisa Vapné works as a historian specializing in Eastern European history.
Sponsor: Jewish Federation of Greater Seattle
