(LOVELADIES, NJ) -- As Russia's aggression threatens its existence, an amateur force of Ukrainian writers, musicians, teachers and artists take up arms to stave off their destruction. These ordinary people in extraordinary situations are the subjects of a new film, Porcelain War, a Ukrainian documentary shortlisted this year's Oscars. 

Lighthouse International Film Society will present a screening of Porcelain War at the Long Beach Island Foundation of the Arts and Sciences (120 Long Beach Boulevard) in Loveladies on Friday, January 24, 2025.  There will be a reception at 6:30pm followed by the screening at 7:30pm. Tickets are $15 and available for purchase online.  The screening is sponsored by Wally's Restaurant of Surf City.  

Produced and directed by master Ukrainian ceramicists Brendan Bellomo and Slava Leontyev, Porcelain War paints a intimate portrait of these artists who wield their creativity and craft as a weapon against its oppressors. As Bellomo says of the film, “Ukraine is like porcelain, easy to break, impossible to destroy.” 

Filled with startling cinematography—both on the battlefield and in the artist's studio—Porcelain War displays the unyielding spirit of resistance by a nation fighting for its cultural life.

A testament to the power of art in the face of adversity, this film stands as a rallying cry of hope, courage, and the indomitable human spirit. Since its 2024 release, Porcelain War has been awarded many film festival honors, including the US Grand Jury Award at the Sundance Film Festival. This is an important film you will never forget.

An hour prior to its 7:30pm screening, a complimentary reception in support of Ukrainian charities will be hosted at the LBI Foundation in Loveladies by Wally’s Restaurant. “Perogies,” a Ukrainian culinary favorite, will be served along with finger sandwiches and borscht, a sour soup made with meat stock.  This is the third charitable collaboration between Lighthouse International Film Society and Wally’s in support of Ukraine.

In addition to the reception, all proceeds from Wally’s dinner service for the evening, at its Surf City location, 712 Long Beach Blvd will be donated to support Ukrainian relief groups. The Lighthouse International Film Society will be donating a portion of the ticket sales to support Ukrainian relief groups.

The mission of the Lighthouse International Film Festival is to give independent filmmakers from around the world an opportunity for their voices to be heard and their stories to be told, allowing for diverse storytelling and giving audiences the opportunity to explore current issues while being educated, enlightened, engaged and always, entertained. The Lighthouse International Film Society is the film festival's sister organization, bringing  you cutting-edge, award-winning films and events to enjoy all year long.