CWC Virtual Discussion: “The Babushkas of Chernobyl”

In recognition of the 35th anniversary of the Chernobyl disaster, the Carsey-Wolf Center is proud to partner with the interdisciplinary conference “Fallout: Chernobyl and the Ecology of Disaster” in presenting a virtual discussion of The Babushkas of Chernobyl (2015). This powerful documentary explores the radioactive dead zone surrounding Chernobyl’s Reactor No. 4, where a defiant community of women ekes out an existence on some of the most toxic land on Earth. They share this hauntingly beautiful but lethal landscape with an assortment of interlopers: scientists, soldiers, and even young thrill-seekers who sneak in to pursue post-apocalyptic video game-inspired fantasies. Why the film’s central characters—Hanna Zavorotyna, Maria Shovkuta, and Valentyna Ivanivna—chose to return after the disaster, defying the authorities and endangering their health, is a remarkable tale about the pull of home, the healing power of shaping one’s destiny, and the subjective nature of risk.

Director Holly Morris will join moderator Sara Pankenier Weld (Germanic and Slavic Studies, UCSB) for a discussion of the making of this important film.

Please note this event will not include a screening.

Registered participants will receive a link to screen The Babushkas of Chernobyl two days in advance of the event.