The documentary film “The Last Message” by directors Andriy Voloshyn and Oleksiy Lebedev was included in the list of eight films submitted for the national selection from Ukraine for the 99th Academy Awards in the category “Best International Feature Film“.
The Ukrainian Oscar Committee is to determine the film representing Ukraine on September 16, 2026.
“The Last Message” tells the story of American-Ukrainian singer and social activist Kelsey Kimberlin, whose cousin Andriy Rachok voluntarily joined the Armed Forces of Ukraine and died on February 22, 2024 during the battles for Avdiivka.
After her brother’s death, Kimberlyn traveled to Ukraine to learn more about his final months and to understand his decision to defend Ukraine.
The film’s title is based on Kelsey’s last contact with Andriy. Before his death, he tried to contact her, but she did not answer the call. After his death, this episode became an important part of her personal experience of loss.
While working on the film, Kimberlyn met with Ukrainian military personnel, commanders, journalists, volunteers, and civilians, and visited settlements and areas near the frontline that had been affected by Russian aggression.
