Conceived prior to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Do You Love Me? couldn’t be more timely. Partly based on the experiences of writer-director Tonya Noyabrova, the drama is set in Ukraine in 1990, toward the end of the Soviet Union.
The story focuses on Kira (Karyna Khymchuk), a confident teenager who dreams of being an actress. Living with her affluent parents, the tensions of the outside world don’t seem to touch her existence filled with pop music and Americana. Suddenly, her world is turned upside down when it emerges that her father has a lover, something her mother is aware of and ignores. Her innocent view of the world crumbles alongside the prosperity of her nation as she runs from place to place seeking stability and love.
Visually, the film could have been made during the time it portrays. The set design, costumes, and cultural easter eggs all lend the story an air of authenticity. Something that is laudable for an independent film. Noyabrova masterfully blends the personal and political, making Kira’s surroundings a gentle hum that she ignores, until it becomes so loud, she can hear nothing else. The move from a carefree adolescence to the grim reality of her future sneaks up on both her and the audience. Here are the comparisons to make with the current situation in Ukraine: this is a period of great uncertainty and fear. As Kira’s neighbours begin to make desperate bids to flee their homeland, it’s difficult not to think of what may be happening to those in similar situations in the 21st Century.
Karyna Khymchuk gives a startling performance in the lead. Required to tell the story of both her character and her nation, subtle changes in her mood and physicality show a girl being forced into womanhood before she is ready. The outward confidence barely covers a vulnerability that leads her to repeat the film’s title question, “do you love me?”, to various people in her life. It’s heartbreaking to watch, and Khymchuk makes us feel hard-hitting moments such as overdoses and interactions with predatory men.
Ending beautifully with an unanswered question, Do You Love Me? is a journey that will have you feeling like you are walking every step alongside the protagonist. The film’s messaging will also leave you thinking about the other Kiras around the world, and what the future might hold for them.
Do You Love Me? shows online for free throughout the entire month of December as part of ArteKino 2024.
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