Queer Ukrainian Film Redefined by War's Brutal Reality

The film "I Rarely Wake Up Dreaming," directed by Isabelle Stever and written by Anna Melikova, saw its original vision transformed by Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Melikova explained that "the reality changed our plans," evolving a personal queer love story into a narrative profoundly impacted by war.

The screenplay, which initially focused on a couple's transition, was compelled to address the interruption of war following Russia's 2022 full-scale invasion. The story centers on Oleh and Olya, whose plans to marry are disrupted by the conflict, forcing them to re-evaluate their commitment.

Despite early intentions to film primarily in Germany, the filmmakers felt compelled to shoot in Kyiv for authenticity. They cast Markus Bright as Oleh and Tania Myronyshena as Olya, non-professional actors who brought a unique intimacy to their roles.

Mounting the production amidst the war presented significant safety challenges. Filmmakers prioritized the well-being of their cast and crew, adapting to air alarms and drone threats. The film concludes with an image Stever and Melikova describe as a question about societal categorization and the denial of basic dignity.