The Ukrainian House National Cultural Centre hosted a panel discussion entitled “A Heroic Nation — A Nation of Heroes,” dedicated to the formation of the image of the national hero through the modern film industry and animation. The event took place on 13 November with the support of the Ministry of Culture of Ukraine and brought together directors, producers, documentary filmmakers and animators who create Ukrainian content and influence the country’s cultural narrative.
The discussion focused on the question of what a modern Ukrainian hero is and how his image is formed in films, series and animated projects. The participants emphasised that the narrative of the hero is a key element of cultural identity and an important component of the state’s strategic communications.
The discussion was attended by director Denys Tarasov, producer Oleksiy Kulikov, documentary filmmakers Mykola But and Yuriy Karagodin, as well as the creators of the animated series “Koto — Master of Emotions” Andriy Franchuk and Maksym Matsveiko. The conversation was moderated by cultural figure Yevhen Myroniuk.
The artists presented their projects, united by the theme of modern heroism. Denys Tarasov emphasised that today’s heroes are the people around us who stand by and support each other in wartime. Mykola But noted that a hero can be not only a person, but also an act that everyone should perform. Yurii Karagodin emphasised the importance of a true and strong image of the military, which should remain at the centre of the Ukrainian narrative.
Special attention was paid to children’s content. Andrii Franchuk and Maksym Matsveiko stressed that children need heroes who help them deal with their fears and emotions. The character of Koto in their animated series is presented as a modern interpretation of Kotygoroshko, embodying the idea of support and restoration.
The participants concluded that Ukrainian heroes should be honest, multidimensional, and humane, as well as emotionally accessible to children. The image of the military needs to be presented truthfully and with dignity. Cultural products are seen as tools that can shape the future identity of the country and influence social meanings. The discussion was described as a space where a new cultural narrative is born and answers to questions about today’s heroes are found.
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