About the project

An ironic documentary anthropological investigation into Ukrainian identity and their national ideals.

Despite the weightiness of the topic, the director envisions a lighthearted narrative filled with adventures and unexpected plot twists. Finding moments of joy amidst turmoil is invaluable, and the film aims to bring a smile to its audience during difficult times.

Logline

Dentist Mykhailo believes he may be a direct descendant of the iconic 19th-century Ukrainian artist and poet Taras Shevchenko, whom Ukrainians call the Father of the Nation. His quest to uncover the truth leads him — and the audience — through unexpected encounters and remarkable adventures. In the end, we witness the “DNA of the Nation”: a self-ironic collective portrait of Ukrainians today.

Synopsis

Ukrainians regard Taras Shevchenko as the “father of the nation,” whose poetry embodies their struggle for independence, dignity, and defiance against enemies. He is both celebrated and debated, with many striving to follow his example while swearing by his poetry. Despite the cult-like devotion surrounding him, Shevchenko was fundamentally an artist.

In the serene village of Sedniv, Mr. Mykhailo sings at the historic St. George’s Church, harboring a little-known secret: a preserved family letter claiming his great-grandfather was Shevchenko’s illegitimate child. Meanwhile, In the village of Shevchenkove, lives a true descendant of the great poet’s family, Mr. Mykola. He passionately defends his family’s honor and position as the family representative: “Our prophet was unmarried and childless, a scientific fact!” he insists.

Is Mr. Mykhailo truly Shevchenko’s descendant, as he passionately believes? His quest for validation and acceptance from Shevchenko’s family unfolds dramatically. Meanwhile, Mr. Mykola’s reactions in either scenario promise intense encounters. This journey is marked by mysterious rituals, the secure transport of Shevchenko’s mustache in an armored car, poetic revelations, and more. Ultimately, through meticulous scientific analysis, the film unveils the DNA of Ukraine’s national identity.

CONTACTS:
Ivanna Khitsinska (producer) +38 067 1499128, email ivannakhitsinska@gmail.com
Ringailė Leščinskienė (producer) +37067789371, email ringaile.sakalyte@gmail.com
Ivan Sautkin (director) +38 067 5076254, email sautkin@gmail.com

Looking for financing, coproduction, industry events, festivals, and presales.