Matterica's documentary Our Children (2026) has been released on Okko — a detailed look at children from Russia's new regions who have lived through armed conflict. It was directed by Vladislav Kuznetsov and produced by the studio Matterica together with the online outlet Lenta.ru. The digital release on Okko took place on May 29, 2026; the film was first presented around Defender of the Fatherland Day.
About the film
The film follows children whose lives changed after the start of the conflict in Donbass: the loss of loved ones, the constant fear of shelling, and being forced to leave home. The second half is about the path to recovery — psychologists, camp counselors and volunteers helping the children, step by step, regain their ability to trust the world and live a full life. The filmmakers describe Our Children as a story about recovery and resilience.
How it was made
The documentary is part of a multi-format project by Lenta.ru, created with the support of the Internet Development Institute (IRI), the "A Country for Children" program of Russia's Presidential Commissioner for Children's Rights, and the "Poslezavtra" (Day After Tomorrow) project. The idea was born during a session of the "Poslezavtra" camp — in conversation with children whose parents take part in the special military operation.
The idea for Our Children was born during a session of the "Poslezavtra" camp, in direct dialogue with children whose parents are taking part in the special military operation. At its core is a simple, clear thought: there is no such thing as someone else's child.
— Gavriil Gordeyev, General Producer at Okko
Screening at the Kinomayovka festival
From May 1 to 3, 2026, Our Children was part of the special-screenings program at the Kinomayovka festival in the "Tavrida" art cluster in Crimea. The festival drew more than 5,000 participants, including 800 film professionals, and showed over 70 films; the main screening venue was the Okko open-air cinema. The film screened alongside the war drama Malysh and the documentary series The "Akhmat" Family.
Festival coverage: ngzt.ru and Lenta.ru.
Team
Directed by, and creative producer, Vladislav Kuznetsov. Written by Alexander Pogodin. Director of photography Nazar Nazarov. Edited by Andrey Yanes. Produced by Sergei Shishkin, Gavriil Gordeyev, Vladimir Todorov and Mikhail Borodin. Executive producer Ksenia Gofman; post-production producer Valeria Bokovaya.
Coverage
The release was reported by trade and news outlets:
- Lenta.ru — "Okko and Lenta.ru present the documentary Our Children about children from the new regions"
- Rabotniki TV — premiere announcement on Okko
- Kino.Mail.ru — film page
- Film.ru — film page
Where to watch
Our Children is available on Okko. More about the film on the project page.
