Surviving Izolyatsia

Surviving Izolyatsia follows the intertwined journeys of Lyudmila and Daniil, two Ukrainian civilians who endured years of detention inside the now-notorious Izolyatsia prison. Through their testimonies, the film brings us into a space marked by isolation, violence, and survival, revealing the lasting impact of ill treatment, torture, and sexual violence.

Their stories unfold as intimate acts of remembrance, bearing witness to lives shaped by captivity and the strength required to endure it.

Now free, Lyudmila and Daniil step beyond survival into resistance. The film captures their transformation into advocates for civilian detainees, as they fight for recognition, accountability, and justice. By foregrounding their voices, Surviving Izolyatsia explores what justice means after release—examining the urgent need for services, reparations, and meaningful legal processes, while exposing the obstacles survivors continue to face within Ukraine’s ongoing pursuit of justice.

The Mandorla Films team, together with Justice Rapid Response, join forces to tell the stories of Lyudmila and Daniil, amplifying survivors’ voices to promote the rights and access to justice of civilian detainees in Ukraine.