Briarcliff Entertainment has acquired the North American rights to the documentary 'Ash and Crayons', directed by Evgeny Afineevsky, an Oscar-nominated filmmaker known for his powerful portrayals of war and its impact on civilians. This acquisition marks a significant moment in the film industry, as 'Ash and Crayons' sheds light on the devastating effects of the ongoing war in Ukraine on its youngest generation. The film, which combines verité footage with animations created by Ukrainian artists, follows seven children who display remarkable resilience despite facing catastrophic injuries and forcible deportations. The acquisition is a testament to the film's powerful message and its potential to resonate with audiences worldwide.
Afineevsky's dedication to documenting the war in Ukraine dates back to 2015 with 'Winter on Fire: Ukraine's Fight for Freedom', for which he received an Oscar nomination. His subsequent work, 'Freedom on Fire: Ukraine's Fight for Freedom', further solidified his commitment to this cause. 'Ash and Crayons' is a continuation of his work, focusing on the resilience of Ukrainian children. The film's early success is evident from its recognition with the Cinema for Peace Award in Berlin, presented by Hillary Clinton, and the praise from Afineevsky's collaborators.
Tom Ortenberg, the veteran film executive behind Briarcliff Entertainment, expressed his pride in associating with such a powerful film. He emphasized the company's commitment to bringing impactful stories to audiences. Kevin Goetz, one of the film's producers, shared similar sentiments, highlighting the importance of sharing these inspiring stories with the world. Afineevsky himself expressed his honor in sharing the stories of these children and his gratitude to the Ukrainian artists and industry professionals who contributed to the film's creation.
The acquisition of 'Ash and Crayons' by Briarcliff Entertainment is a significant step in bringing this important documentary to a wider audience. The film's release on World Children's Day, November 20, is a strategic move to maximize its impact and reach. With Briarcliff's expertise in impact and awards campaigns, the film is poised to make a significant difference in raising awareness about the war's devastating effects on Ukrainian children. This acquisition also underscores the film industry's role in shedding light on global issues and inspiring action through powerful storytelling.
