IRON

The film consists of interconnected etudes about humans and military equipment in cities of different countries, while the war in Ukraine has shaken up the entire world and influences everything and everyone, no matter how far from the battle-fronts or whether the air raid sirens can be heard.

Military vehicles – noticed or unnoticed, publicly displayed or ignored – have always been present in cities as echoes and witnesses of some war. They have a distinctive bond with the history, the people, and the ongoing events and tragedies. The attitude toward these iron beasts reveals much about individuals and society. They can be seen in countries that have induced wars and those that have been invaded. In countries that have triumphed and those still recovering from the wounds of defeat. In countries that feel confident in their power and those struggling with the consequences of occupations.

Poland, Azerbaijan, Russia, Estonia, Germany, Ukraine… In some cities of these countries, military vehicles are brought in for parades, in some others – used for exhibitions or fairs. They also serve as a festivity decoration or are placed on pedestals as a constant reminder. Both the elderly and youngsters lay flowers by them in places where war is still a symbol of power and national pride. At the same time, elsewhere, both the elderly and youngsters come to see the destroyed military equipment of the aggressor state. Or just line up for an idyllic photo shoot with the means acquired by the state to protect them.