‘A Ukrainian witch kicks the crap out of Russian soldiers’: the new wave of horror films taking on Putin’s army

The rise of Ukrainian horror films, such as 'The Witch: Revenge,' illustrates a cultural phenomenon where filmmakers harness the genre to confront the realities of war. Filming began in late 2023, with costumes sourced from actual Russian soldiers' uniforms, adding a layer of authenticity to the narrative. The film tells the story of a witch who regains her powers to avenge her fiancé's death at the hands of invaders, resonating deeply with audiences and grossing $1.4 million at the box office. This success highlights a growing trend of female-driven narratives in horror, which serve as both entertainment and a coping mechanism for the trauma of war. As part of a broader horror universe, 'The Witch: Revenge' sets the stage for future films, including 'The Dam,' further exploring themes of resistance and resilience in the face of adversity.