Last night, on 14 July 2026, I got the chance to participate in one of the film screening series organized by EUNIC Malaysia, watching this lovely Ukrainian film called Hutsulka Ksenya.
In partnership with GSC Cinemas, the screening was held at GSC Quill City Mall at around 8PM. What was special about this event, beyond the film screening itself, is that before we entered the cinema hall, we were greeted by a wonderful showcase of Ukrainian traditional costumes, allowing us to learn about Ukrainian culture through it. Then we entered the hall and secured our seats, and soon after, we heard a brief opening speech from H.E. Dr. Hennadii Nadolenko, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Ukraine to Malaysia, kicking us off with the screening. And off we went to the film!
The film, Hutsulka Ksenya, is a beautiful, warm, and entertaining story about the journey of Yaro, an American-Ukrainian man who inherited his father’s fortune under one simple yet complicated condition: to marry a Ukrainian girl within a year of his father’s death. The film takes us through his journey as he travels around Ukraine, accompanied by his uncle and cousin, in hopes of finding the love of his life.
Not only was this film so entertaining to watch, but the cinematography was simply breathtaking — the mountains, the landscapes, the view of the hotel where they were staying, all shot so beautifully that you feel as if you’re there yourself. Not to mention that this is also a musical, and as if the shots weren’t gorgeous enough, we’re treated to mesmerizing songs throughout as well.
Overall, I enjoyed the film very much. A simple story, yet made in such a meticulous way that you don’t feel time passing, simply because you’re taken away by the incredible performances and delightful scenery. Thank you once again to EUNIC Malaysia and GSC for organizing and screening this film!
