SOIL
The documentary project «VARTA» presents the fifth short film novella «SOIL».
Duration: 20 min
Theme: Demining / Sappers / Sacredness of land
Premiere: March 2025
Purpose: Film festivals, curated screenings
Synopsis
Millions of unexploded shells and mines litter Ukrainian land due to the Russian invasion. The only way to clear these areas is to demine them. Thousands of sappers work on demining, risking their lives daily. Some of these people are foreigners who came to Ukraine following a call of duty. This episode demonstrates the sacredness of native land for the people.
Hero stories
Deminer — саперна група
VARTA / SOIL
Team lead — координує зачистку ділянок
VARTA / SOIL
Foreign volunteer — сапер (EOD)
VARTA / SOIL
Behind the scenes
SOIL is about invisible danger and patience — the work that restores life to land.
The novella observes demining as a daily ritual: preparation, careful movement, quiet concentration, and responsibility for every step. The story also highlights why land matters — as home, memory, and future.
SOIL is not a reconstruction.
It is a portrait of those who return safety to the ground.