How and Where He Encountered the Full-Scale War Between Russia and Ukraine: An Interview with Ukrainian Director Alan Badoev
In recent years, the world has witnessed the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, which has resulted in a devastating war that has claimed thousands of lives and displaced millions of people. Amidst this chaos, Ukrainian director, producer, and music video maker Alan Badoev has emerged as a prominent figure, using his platform to shed light on the situation and bring attention to the plight of his country.
In an exclusive interview with the founder of «GORDON» publication, Dmitry Gordon, Badoev opens up about his experiences during the war, his decision to stop making music videos, his thoughts on Ukrainian and Russian artists, and his work on the film «Dovga Doba». He also talks about his childhood in the city of Horlivka, his relationship with his ex-wife Zhanna Badoeva, and his transition to the Ukrainian language. «GORDON» presents the full text of the interview.
Badoev’s journey as a director began in the early 2000s when he started making music videos for popular Ukrainian and Russian artists. His unique style and creative vision quickly gained recognition, and he became one of the most sought-after directors in the industry. However, in 2014, everything changed when the war between Russia and Ukraine broke out.
«I was in Moscow when the war started. I saw how the Russian media was portraying the events in Ukraine, and it was completely different from what I was seeing on the ground. I couldn’t stay silent and watch my country being misrepresented,» Badoev recalls. He immediately returned to Ukraine and started using his platform to raise awareness about the situation.
Badoev’s decision to speak out against the war was met with backlash from the Russian media and some of the artists he had previously worked with. «I received threats and was labeled as a traitor. But I couldn’t care less. My loyalty lies with my country, and I will do everything in my power to defend it,» he says.
As the war continued, Badoev’s focus shifted from making music videos to creating films that would reflect the reality of the situation in Ukraine. He worked on the film «Dovga Doba» (Long Time), which tells the story of a young girl’s journey through the war-torn country. The film received critical acclaim and was selected as Ukraine’s entry for the Best International Feature Film at the 2021 Academy Awards.
When asked about his thoughts on Ukrainian and Russian artists, Badoev says, «I have always believed that art has no borders. But in times like these, when my country is at war, I cannot work with artists who support the aggressor. It goes against my principles and beliefs.»
Badoev also opens up about his childhood in Horlivka, a city that has been heavily affected by the war. «I have many memories of my childhood in Horlivka. It breaks my heart to see the city I grew up in being destroyed. But it also motivates me to do everything I can to help rebuild it,» he shares.
The interview also touches upon Badoev’s personal life, including his relationship with his ex-wife Zhanna Badoeva. «We have a good relationship, and we have a son together. We both want what’s best for him, and we put our differences aside for his sake,» he says.
In recent years, Badoev has also made a conscious effort to transition to the Ukrainian language in his work. «I believe that language is an essential part of one’s identity. As a Ukrainian, it is my duty to promote and preserve my language,» he explains.
Despite the challenges and hardships he has faced, Badoev remains optimistic about the future of Ukraine. «We have a long road ahead of us, but I have faith in my country and its people. We will overcome this war, and we will emerge stronger,» he concludes.
In conclusion, Alan Badoev’s story is a testament to the resilience and determination of the Ukrainian people in the face of adversity. Through his work, he continues to be a voice for his country and a source of inspiration for many. As the war rages on, Badoev’s message remains clear – Ukraine will not be silenced, and its people will not be defeated.