Defiance in Vilnius: A Gripping Tale of Faith and Resilience

Vilnius
Set in a southeastern Ukrainian town, occupied by Russia in modern times, the story focuses on Andriy, a 35-year-old Ukrainian priest. His church, once a haven for the faithful, is turned into a morgue. Tasked with guarding the bodies of executed Ukrainian civilians, Andriy defies the orders by secretly returning the bodies to their families. As winter approaches and frozen ground makes burial increasingly difficult, Andriy must choose between resistance, abandoning his faith and duty, or facing death. Unexpectedly, a bond forms between him and 11-year-old Makarov, a witness to his defiance. (October 15 – November 20, 2025)
Feature Film
October 15

“Vilnius”: A Gripping Tale of Resistance and Redemption

Set in a southeastern Ukrainian town under Russian occupation, “Vilnius” follows the story of Andriy, a 35-year-old Ukrainian priest faced with a harrowing choice. As his church is transformed into a morgue and he is tasked with guarding the bodies of executed civilians, Andriy defies orders by returning the bodies to their families. With winter closing in and burial becoming increasingly challenging, Andriy must navigate between resistance, faith, and survival. A poignant bond forms between Andriy and 11-year-old Makarov, witnessing his acts of defiance, adding layers of emotion and complexity to the narrative.

This feature film, produced by Stasys Baltakis, Helena Pokorny, Vitalii Sheremetiev, and Jean Bréhat, is a compelling exploration of moral dilemmas, faith, and the resilience of the human spirit. Directed and written by the talented Rostislav Kirpičenko, “Vilnius” promises to take audiences on a poignant journey of courage, sacrifice, and unlikely connections. With a stellar cast led by Kęstutis Cicėnas, the film is a testament to the power of storytelling in portraying the depths of human experience amidst challenging circumstances. Don’t miss this thought-provoking and emotionally resonant cinematic experience when it arrives on screens this October.