The Cranes Call, a heart pounding documentary about the mission to secure accountability for war crimes in Ukraine, will have its Australian premiere on SBS On Demand on 24 July.

This week we chat to Director Laura Warner about the importance of standing up to injustice, safety on set and updates on ongoing trials.

As suggested by Laura, double feature watching of The Cranes Call & Porcelain War.

Note: this interview is audio only. For other video interviews check out our YouTube playlist.

AUS
1800 RESPECT
https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/sexual-assault-and-abuse-helplines 

UK
https://www.thehavens.org.uk/ https://www.thesurvivorstrust.org/

US
National Sexual Assault Hotline: (800) 656-HOPE WWW.RAINN.ORG

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Summary

The Crane’s Call is not just a documentary; it’s a powerful narrative that delves into the heart of justice and accountability for the war crimes committed during Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Directed by Laura Warner, this compelling film has made its Australian premiere on SBS On Demand on July 24th, captivating audiences with its bravery and relevance. We had the privilege of speaking with Laura Warner on the Foyer Reference Podcast, exploring the film’s core themes and the message she hopes to convey.

Meeting the Director

Laura Warner, a seasoned journalist drawn to stories that demand accountability, guides us through her documentary journey. Her commitment to justice is mirrored in her focus on Ukraine, where war crimes continue to rise, affecting hundreds of thousands. Engaging with Anya, a human rights lawyer documented in the film, Warner shows us the unsettling reality of war-torn communities, each haunted by unimaginable crimes.

A Global Conversation

The Crane’s Call poignantly highlights the global responsibility to address these atrocities. Conversations with Anya reveal the systematic methods used during invasions, transcending borders and affecting countless lives. By drawing attention to the war crimes in Ukraine, the documentary urges international action and collaboration.

Legal Battles and Courage

A central theme of the documentary is the fight for justice through international legal frameworks. Anya’s efforts to bring high-profile war criminals to account demonstrate the power of legal principles established after World War II, offering insights into how these cases, if successful, could curtail the freedom of such offenders globally.

Hope and Resilience

Warner sheds light on the resilience and bravery of survivors who, despite experiencing trauma, choose to stand against oppression. Highlighting personal stories, the film underscores the potential for individuals to wield power and instigate change, motivating viewers to find their own way of contributing to a better world.

Conclusion

The Crane’s Call leaves audiences with a sense of duty and hope as survivors rise against formidable odds. It’s a call to action for everyone to harness their abilities in their communities, emphasizing that every effort, however small, contributes to a broader fight for justice.

Recommendations for Further Viewing

For those inspired by The Crane’s Call, Laura Warner recommends watching the documentary “20 Days of Mariupol” and the upcoming “2000 Meters to Cherkasy” to gain a deeper understanding of the ongoing conflict and its impact.

Final Thoughts

The conversation with Laura Warner reminds us that amidst chaos, there is power in storytelling, advocacy, and unified effort. The Crane’s Call captures this essence, urging us to care more, act more, and never turn a blind eye to the suffering caused by war.