PHASE 1 — Proof of Concept Documentary Short

Timeline: Immediate (Sydko is deployed now) • Budget: Minimum of $25,000 - $40,000

What Donations Make Possible
A compelling 10–20 minute documentary short filmed on the front lines by Ukrainian soldiers, directed by Volodymyr Sydko (Senior Information Officer). This short will stand on its own as a glimpse into the Ukrainian war effort, but will also introduce the creative and logistical potential, and the military access we have secured to produce a full series or feature film.

What Phase 1 Delivers

• A frontline documentary led and filmed by Ukrainian soldiers, authentically capturing their lived experience.

• A fully staffed soldier production team (director, two camera operators, audio, PA, and soldier talent) using 4K ALEXA Mini cameras.

• High-quality editing, post-production, color, and sound design.

• A complete marketing and festival submissions package to ensure visibility and reach.

Key Objectives

• Create a powerful short film that will stand on its own as a compelling look into Ukrainian war effort, both on the battlefront and the home front in Kyiv.

• Highlight English-speaking soldiers and citizens whose stories resonate with U.S. and global audiences.

• Demonstrate that military permissions, clearance protocol, and access are fully operational.

• Create a powerful fundraising and pitching tool for a larger feature film or episodic series.

Why Funding Is Urgent

• Sydko is deployed now—access is limited and time-sensitive.

• Full Ukrainian military approval is secured, but must be activated immediately.

• English-speaking soldiers are being cast now, with sample footage ready for review.

• Sydko’s Senior Information Officer status ensures fast clearance and safe output.

PHASE 2 — Production & Post-Production (Series or Feature Film)

Timeline: 6-9 months • Budget: TBA

What Phase 2 Delivers
A fully produced, broadcast-ready series or feature film that elevates the human stories of Ukraine’s defenders through Sydko’s unprecedented frontline access.

Pre-Production

• Narrative and episode breakdowns; script finalization informed by Phase 1 footage.

• Casting of additional soldiers and civilians whose stories anchor the full project.

• Location scouting, permitting, legal preparation, and insurance for conflict-zone operations.

Production

• Multiple filming rotations with Sydko’s trained five-person military crew.

• Satellite communications for secure daily footage transfers.

• Kyiv and home-front filming with Ukrainian and American production teams.

• High-risk aerial and drone POV footage captured during active operations.

• Full safety protocols and conflict-zone grade protective gear.

Post-Production

• Editing and finishing through Los Angeles–based post facilities.

• Color grading, sound design, original scoring.

• Archival footage integration for historical context.

• Deliverables for streaming, broadcast, theatrical, and international platforms.

PHASE 3 — Global Marketing, Distribution & Impact Campaign

Timeline: Post–Phase 2 • Budget: TBA

What Phase 3 Achieves
A global outreach effort ensuring the project reaches festivals, policymakers, streaming platforms, and communities who can amplify its impact.

Festival & Awards Strategy

• Strategic submissions to major festivals (Sundance, IDFA, Toronto).

• Academy Award–qualifying run.

• High-level screenings for U.S. policymakers.

Distribution & Marketing

• Negotiations with leading streaming platforms and networks, all of which continue to invest in Ukraine-related content.

• Limited theatrical release in key domestic and international markets.

• A powerful social-media and outreach campaign featuring soldier-led content.

Impact Campaign

• Partnerships with veteran and humanitarian organizations (IAVA, Team Rubicon, others).

• Educational screenings at universities, cultural institutions, and NGOs.

• Revenue-sharing structures supporting featured soldiers and families.