CHERUBIM
The documentary project «VARTA» presents the first short film novella «CHERUBS»
Duration: 20 min
Theme: Aviation / Pilots
Premiere: 2023
Purpose: Film festivals, curated screenings
Synopsis
The first episode, CHERUBS, tells the story of the heroes of the 11th Separate Army Aviation Brigade “Kherson.”
These pilots and technicians defended Kyiv, fought fierce battles in Irpin, carried out missions at Azovstal, and took part in the operation to liberate Snake Island.
In February 2022, russia possessed significantly more modern combat aircraft, while Ukrainian pilots were accomplishing the impossible in the sky using aircraft that were over forty years old. The 11th Separate Brigade defended the southern direction and stopped enemy armored columns.
It was only thanks to the courage and determination of Ukraine’s defenders that the country managed to protect its airspace and force enemy aviation out of the skies over Ukraine.
Hero stories
Birdie — Mi-8 pilot
11th Army Aviation Brigade
Max — Aircraft technician
11th Army Aviation Brigade
Oksana — Combat medic
11th Army Aviation Brigade
Stills gallery
Stills gallery
Behind the scenes
CHERUBS was filmed in real operational conditions, alongside an active combat aviation unit.
The filming process took place during an ongoing war, with the crew working under constant security restrictions, limited access, and rapidly changing circumstances. Many scenes were captured between missions, during short windows of safety, or immediately after combat flights.
The filmmakers had no possibility to stage events or interfere with military operations. The camera followed reality as it unfolded — preparation, waiting, fatigue, and rare moments of calm between sorties.
Some footage was recorded at significant personal risk. Decisions about what could be filmed and shown were made together with the unit, prioritizing safety and operational security.
CHERUBS is not a reconstruction.
It is a direct observation of life and work inside a military aviation unit during wartime.
Impact & screening history
1,500,000+
Total views
1,000,000+
UAH raised for units
Premieres
Ukraine • Denmark • USA • Latvia • UK
Awards & media mentions
