Filming a Love Story Amidst Ukraine's War Chaos

Filmmaker Caroline Fourest directed "Broken Truth," an English-language romance and road movie, during the initial weeks of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The film was shot over seven weeks in Kyiv and other Ukrainian locations, featuring a largely Ukrainian cast and crew. This ambitious project aimed to capture the reality of the war and its impact on personal lives.

Set in Kyiv, the story follows Julien, a French disinformation strategist, and Katharina, a Ukrainian museum curator, who fall in love amidst the unfolding invasion. Their escape from the city with Katharina's daughter forms the core of the narrative, navigating the war-torn landscape. Fourest, known for her expertise in counter-propaganda, was deeply motivated by the script's exploration of propaganda's effects.

Despite the inherent risks, the production secured insurance and filmed entirely in Ukraine, utilizing actual military actors for authenticity. The crew worked through power outages and constant missile alerts, often relying on military advisors to determine real threats. The €2.6 million budget was made feasible by a French insurance broker.

Fourest expressed her commitment to filming in Ukraine, stating that locations like Kyiv and Maidan were essential to the story's authenticity. The production aimed to demonstrate that international-level films can still be made in Ukraine, even during wartime. The crew's shared experiences and resilience contributed to a sense of collective purpose.

Supported by Ukrainian and French entities, the film's first cut is expected by September 2026. The intention is for "Broken Truth" to premiere in Ukraine before its international festival circuit launch.