The documentary "Antarctica," by Ukrainian blogger Anton Ptushkin, has achieved unprecedented success at the Ukrainian box office, setting a new record for domestic documentary films. In its opening weekend, the film drew over 36,000 viewers and grossed nearly 7.2 million UAH across two major cinema chains, Multiplex and Planeta Kino. This remarkable achievement highlights a growing audience appreciation for Ukrainian storytelling and visual narratives.
The film offers an in-depth look at the 30th Ukrainian Antarctic expedition, documenting the daily lives and scientific work of researchers at the Akademik Vernadsky station. Ptushkin captured the unique challenges faced by the polar explorers, their dedication to science, and their interactions with local wildlife over two weeks of filming. The resulting 86-minute documentary has been praised for its stunning visuals and emotional depth.
Beyond its artistic merit, "Antarctica" emphasizes the importance of climate monitoring and Ukraine's contribution to global scientific research. The documentary provides an accessible window into Ukrainian science and exploration, designed for all age groups. Following its domestic triumph, the film is slated for an international premiere in Warsaw, Poland, on May 17, 2025.
This success follows Ptushkin's previous documentary, "My, Our Beloved Ones and War," released in 2024, which also garnered critical acclaim and achieved a notable UAH 2.3 million in its opening weekend. The film "Antarctica" began its theatrical run on April 4, 2025, quickly establishing itself as a record-breaking sensation. The success of "Antarctica" is particularly significant within the context of the Ukrainian film industry's resurgence, with films like "20 Days in Mariupol" also achieving significant box office milestones and critical acclaim, including an Academy Award.
The Akademik Vernadsky station, Ukraine's sole research base in Antarctica, has a history of meteorological observations dating back to 1947 when it was a British station. It was transferred to Ukraine in 1996. Scientists at the station contribute to various fields, including biology and geophysics, underscoring Ukraine's commitment to scientific discovery and its role in critical global research initiatives.