Ukrainian Children's Healing Journey Captured in New Film

The film 'After the Rain' documents the healing journey of Ukrainian children like Sasha Mezhevoy and Veronika Vlasova, who were rescued from Russian custody and brought to a therapeutic retreat in Estonia.

Sasha, separated from her father during the conflict in Mariupol, spent time at the retreat engaging in animal therapy, which included walking dogs and riding ponies, to help alleviate her trauma. Veronika, who faced bullying and isolation during her year in Russia, used humor as a defense mechanism and expressed her struggles through art by drawing a blank face.

The film focuses on their emotional experiences rather than the political ramifications of their abduction, highlighting the importance of compassionate mental health support in their recovery. The documentary has sparked interest in broader discussions about the estimated 19,546 Ukrainian children unlawfully deported to Russia, as noted by the Ukrainian government, with only 1,898 reported to have returned.

Director Sarah McCarthy aimed to present these children as individuals with hopes and dreams, not merely statistics, emphasizing the need for ongoing mental health support as they navigate their complex feelings of loss and longing.