New Movies: Oxana (2024) by Charlène Favier: A Portrait of Post-Activist Despair

Core Summary: The Unraveling of an Icon

"Oxana" (2024), directed by acclaimed French filmmaker Charlène Favier (known for "Slalom"), is a biographical drama that intimately portrays a single, crucial day in the life of Oksana Shachko, a pivotal co-founder of the FEMEN movement. Set on July 23, 2018, the day her controversial "blasphemous icons" art exhibition opens in Paris, the film follows Oxana's wandering through the city. Amidst encounters with former lovers, an art critic, and an appointment concerning her political refugee status, she is relentlessly haunted by memories of her past as a bare-chested activist, the profound traumas she suffered during her fight, and the betrayals that scarred her. The narrative is a raw and unflinching exploration of a woman grappling with disillusionment, the heavy cost of her activism, and a desperate search for meaning, questioning whether she can rekindle her desire to live in the face of overwhelming despair. The film is a French-Hungarian co-production, primarily in French and Russian.

Snapshot: Ex-FEMEN's Day of Reckoning

On the day her art opens, a co-founder of FEMEN wanders Paris, haunted by past activism, trauma, and betrayal, desperately seeking a reason to live as her world crumbles.

Link IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt29389846/

Link Review: https://cineuropa.org/en/newsdetail/476382/

About movie: https://goodfellas.film/movie/oxana/

Link to watch: https://www.amazon.de/-/en/Charl%C3%A8ne-Favier/dp/B0F99HD72D/ (Germany)

Deep Dive: The Weight of a Woman's War

"Oxana" offers a stark and poignant examination of the aftermath of radical activism, focusing on the deep psychological scars left by relentless struggle and public exposure. Charlène Favier's direction, building on her previous work in "Slalom," excels at portraying the internal turmoil of a powerful female protagonist.

Key aspects that define "Oxana":

• The Psychological Toll of Activism: The film powerfully explores the often-unseen side of activism: the immense personal cost, the mental and emotional exhaustion, the trauma from threats and violence, and the disillusionment when the fight feels endless or unappreciated. Oxana's journey is a raw depiction of burnout and despair.

• A Portrait of Despair and Suicidal Ideation: The narrative openly addresses Oxana's struggle with finding a reason to live. It's a brave and sensitive portrayal of depression and suicidal ideation, presenting it not as a weakness, but as a devastating consequence of intense personal sacrifice and trauma.

• The Burden of the Past: Flashbacks and fragmented memories constantly intrude on Oxana's present, illustrating how her past as a FEMEN activist, with its triumphs and betrayals, defines her current state. The opening of her art exhibition, ironically, brings her past into stark public view.

• Art as a Means of Expression and Self-Preservation: Oxana's "blasphemous icons" are not just a new chapter; they are a continuation of her protest, a raw, artistic cry from a wounded soul. The film explores art as both therapy and a final act of defiance.

• Favier's Signature Intimacy: Building on "Slalom," Favier is known for her close, almost claustrophobic focus on her protagonists' internal lives. In "Oxana," this likely translates into a deeply empathetic yet unflinching gaze at Oxana's deteriorating mental state.

• The Paradox of Public Persona vs. Private Suffering: The film highlights the stark contrast between Oxana's public image as a fearless, defiant activist and her profound private vulnerability and suffering, emphasizing the human behind the headlines.

"Oxana" is a courageous film that sheds light on the often-unacknowledged sacrifices made by those who dedicate their lives to radical change, and the desperate search for peace in its aftermath.

The Journey: A Day's Long Shadow

• The Exhibition Opening: The film begins on July 23, 2018, the day of Oxana Shachko's "blasphemous icons" art exhibition opening in Paris.

• Wandering Through Paris: Oxana embarks on a seemingly aimless journey through the city, interspersed with encounters with various figures from her life.

• Echoes of Activism: Memories of her past as a FEMEN activist, including protests, arrests, and confrontations, begin to resurface and haunt her.

• Confronting Trauma and Betrayal: These memories bring forth the emotional and physical traumas she suffered during her fight, as well as betrayals by former allies or loved ones.

• The Weight of Existence: As the day progresses, Oxana's internal struggle with despair intensifies, leading her to question her purpose and ability to continue living.

• Seeking Connection/Solitude: Encounters with lovers, an art critic, and officials for her refugee status provide moments of fleeting connection or frustrating reminders of her isolated state.

• A Desperate Search for Meaning: The film builds towards a climactic realization or a final, poignant act, exploring whether Oxana can find a spark to rekindle her desire to live.

Director's Lens: Charlène Favier's Empathy for the Embattled Soul

Charlène Favier, with "Oxana," continues to build a distinctive directorial style marked by raw intimacy, a keen focus on female protagonists, and an unflinching examination of trauma and power dynamics. Her previous work on "Slalom" (2020) demonstrated her ability to handle sensitive and difficult subjects with nuance and a strong visual language.

• Intimate and Unflinching Character Study: Favier dives deep into the psychological landscape of her characters. In "Oxana," this translates to a relentless, empathetic focus on Oksana Shachko's internal turmoil, utilizing close-ups and a subjective perspective to immerse the audience in her emotional state.

  • Filmmakers aiming for powerful character dramas should prioritize intimate cinematography and sound design to reflect the protagonist's inner world. Trust in the actors to convey complex emotions through subtle gestures and expressions, making the audience feel truly present in their struggle.

• Exploration of Trauma and Resilience: Favier is drawn to stories of individuals grappling with profound trauma and the long-term effects of adversity. Her direction allows for a delicate yet firm portrayal of vulnerability and the complex journey towards survival or despair.

  • When depicting trauma, directors should focus on authenticity and sensitivity, avoiding sensationalism. Explore the long-term psychological impact, showing how past experiences shape present behavior and emotional states, allowing for nuanced portrayals of resilience or its absence.

• Atmospheric and Evocative Storytelling: While driven by character, Favier often uses setting and visual metaphor to enhance the emotional landscape. The Parisian backdrop in "Oxana," perhaps as a symbol of both freedom and indifference, likely plays a significant atmospheric role.

  • Directors can use environmental details and visual motifs to amplify thematic depth. The physical space a character inhabits can reflect their mental state or the oppressive forces acting upon them, adding layers to the narrative without explicit dialogue.

• Socially Conscious Narratives: Favier gravitates towards stories with strong social relevance, particularly those concerning women's experiences and societal pressures. Her films often carry a powerful message or provoke important discussions.

  • Filmmakers with a social conscience can use their art to shed light on important issues. By crafting compelling narratives around relevant social themes, directors can create impactful films that not only entertain but also encourage reflection and dialogue among audiences.

Central Themes: The Lingering Scars of Revolution

• The Aftermath of Activism: Explores the profound personal cost and psychological toll of dedicating one's life to a radical cause.

• Grief and Despair: A raw depiction of an individual's struggle with overwhelming sorrow, disillusionment, and suicidal ideation.

• Identity Beyond the Fight: Questions what remains of a person's identity when the cause they defined themselves by is no longer fulfilling or has seemingly failed.

• Trauma and Betrayal: Highlights the deep wounds inflicted by both external opposition and internal conflicts or betrayals within a movement.

• Art as a Cry for Meaning: Examines how artistic expression can serve as a final desperate attempt to communicate, protest, or find purpose amidst despair.

Why It Shines: A Haunting and Crucial Portrayal

• Deeply Affecting Character Study: Provides an intimate and unflinching look into the mind of a complex, troubled activist.

• Charlène Favier's Sensitive Direction: Her signature style brings authenticity and emotional depth to a challenging subject.

• Timely and Relevant Themes: Addresses the often-overlooked psychological cost of activism and struggles with mental health.

• Powerful Performance (likely): While cast details are somewhat sparse, Favier is known for strong female leads, and the central role demands a compelling portrayal.

• Important Biographical Insight: Offers a poignant look into the life of a significant, yet tragic, figure from a prominent social movement.

Critics Reception: Early Praise for a Brave Portrait

"Oxana" has garnered positive early critical reception, particularly from European film festivals and industry publications, highlighting Charlène Favier's sensitive handling of the challenging biographical subject matter.

• Cineuropa: In its review, Cineuropa praises "Oxana" as a "moving fiction film" that "traces the revolutionary and artistic existence of one of the founders of the Femen movement, full of courage and adversity." The review suggests Favier successfully delves into the complexities of Oksana's life, showing her "resilience and fragility." This indicates appreciation for the film's nuanced portrayal of a controversial figure.

• Unifrance: This French cinema promotional body highlights the film's "powerful portrait" and notes its focus on Oksana's "struggle to find a reason to live" amidst "memories of her past as a feminist activist, and the traumas and betrayals suffered during her fight." This aligns with critics appreciating the film's psychological depth.

• Lux Film Festival: The festival's synopsis emphasizes the film as a "powerful portrait" and focuses on the central question of whether Oxana "can reawaken her desire to live," suggesting critics respond positively to its raw emotional core.

Overall Summary: Critics are commending Charlène Favier for a courageous and deeply empathetic portrayal of Oksana Shachko. The film is being praised for its intimate character study, its unflinching look at the psychological toll of activism and trauma, and its overall emotional impact. It appears to be a poignant and necessary film that adds significant depth to the discussion around social movements and their human cost.

Audience Reactions: Awaiting Wider Engagement

As "Oxana" is primarily a European arthouse release with staggered international distribution throughout 2025 (e.g., France: April 16, 2025; Germany: July 24, 2025; Hungary: July 3, 2025), comprehensive audience reactions are still in their very early stages.

Initial audience sentiments, likely from festival screenings or early European releases, are expected to:

• Be Deeply Moved: Viewers are likely to be profoundly affected by Oxana's tragic journey and the raw depiction of her despair.

• Spark Discussion on Activism's Cost: The film will undoubtedly prompt conversations about the human price paid by radical activists and the long-term impact of their battles.

• Appreciate the Nuance: Audiences interested in complex biographical dramas will likely value the film's sensitive and non-judgmental portrayal of Oxana's struggles.

• Acknowledge its Difficulty: Given the heavy themes of trauma, depression, and suicidal ideation, some viewers might find the film emotionally challenging or bleak.

Wider audience consensus and aggregate scores will become clearer as the film receives broader releases in more countries.

Box Office Performance: Arthouse Release, Modest Numbers

"Oxana" is an arthouse biographical drama, and its box office performance reflects this distribution model. It is not designed to be a blockbuster, but rather to find its audience in specialized cinemas and through critical acclaim.

• Worldwide Gross: As of late June 2025, the film has a reported worldwide gross of approximately $93,099. This figure is primarily driven by its early release in France.

• Domestic (France) Gross: The film opened in France on April 16, 2025, with a gross of approximately $93,099, which currently accounts for its entire reported worldwide total.

• Budget: Specific budget details are not widely available, but as a French-Hungarian co-production drama, it would typically operate on a modest budget compared to major studio productions.

• Expected Performance: Its current numbers are typical for an acclaimed European arthouse film. Its financial success will be measured more by its critical reception, festival selections, and eventual performance on VOD and streaming platforms, rather than a large theatrical haul. It's expected to continue its staggered international release throughout 2025.

Overall Summary: "Oxana" is performing as expected for a critically focused, independent European drama. Its modest box office figures are not indicative of its critical merit or impact, but rather its niche market distribution.

Production Notes: Authentic Portrayal, International Collaboration

"Oxana" benefited from meticulous attention to detail to authentically portray Oksana Shachko's life and struggles.

• Biographical Accuracy and Sensitivity: Given its biographical nature and the tragic real-life fate of Oksana Shachko (who died by suicide in 2018), the production would have required extensive research and a highly sensitive approach to ensure accuracy and respect for her story and those around her.

• International Co-production: The French-Hungarian collaboration suggests diverse production resources and potentially multiple filming locations to capture the various aspects of Oxana's life.

• Favier's Intimate Style: The director's known approach of close-ups and focus on internal states would have required strong performances and a nuanced understanding between the cast and crew.

• Language Use: The film's use of both French and Russian reflects the cultural contexts of Oxana's life and the settings depicted.

Production Companies: European Cinema Collaboration

• Rectangle Productions: (France) Likely a key French production company involved in the film.

• 2.4.7. Films: (France) Another French production company potentially involved.

• (Other Hungarian production partners would also be involved, though not specifically named in search results.)

Sales & Distribution: Targeted Arthouse Release

• French Release: The film had its initial release in France on April 16, 2025, handled by its French distributor.

• Staggered International Release: Distribution is occurring incrementally across Europe in 2025 (e.g., Belgium, Germany, Hungary, Switzerland), tailored for arthouse cinemas and film festivals.

• Festival Circuit: The film is likely to play at numerous film festivals throughout 2025 and into 2026 to gain further exposure and critical recognition.

• VOD/Streaming: Post-theatrical, it will find its audience on digital platforms and potentially specialized streaming services for European cinema.

Release Timeline: A European Spring & Summer Debut

• Release Year: 2024 (Production Year), but primarily released in 2025.

• Earliest Release Date: April 16, 2025 (France).

• Key International Releases: May 7, 2025 (Belgium); July 3, 2025 (Hungary); July 24, 2025 (Germany); April 30 / May 1, 2025 (Switzerland).

• Festival Premieres: Screened at various film festivals leading up to and during its theatrical run (e.g., Unifrance Rendez-Vous in Paris, Munich International Film Festival, Ostend Film Festival).

Why See It: A Haunting Look at Activism's True Cost

• Profound Biographical Drama: Offers a raw and deeply moving portrait of a complex and important figure.

• Charlène Favier's Directorial Vision: Experience her intimate, sensitive, and unflinching approach to difficult subjects.

• Relevant Social Commentary: Explores the often-ignored psychological toll of activism and the realities of mental health struggles.

• Strong European Arthouse Cinema: If you appreciate character-driven films with artistic depth and a nuanced perspective.

• To Understand a Figure Beyond the Headlines: Gain insight into the human vulnerability behind a radical public persona.

Why Watch: For a Powerful and Challenging Emotional Journey

• If you admire Charlène Favier's "Slalom": You'll find a similar depth of character and sensitive handling of trauma.

• If you are interested in the FEMEN movement: It provides a personal, albeit tragic, perspective from one of its founders.

• To engage with films on mental health: It offers a raw and unglamorous look at despair and the search for purpose.

• If you prefer character-driven dramas over plot-heavy narratives: The film prioritizes internal struggle and emotional authenticity.

• For a film that provokes thought and discussion: It will likely stay with you long after viewing, prompting reflection on courage, sacrifice, and disillusionment.

Movie Trend: The Unsentimental Biopic & Post-Activist Narratives

"Oxana" (2024) aligns with the emerging movie trend of The Unsentimental Biopic & Post-Activist Narratives. This trend moves beyond celebratory or straightforward biographical portrayals to offer grittier, more psychologically complex looks at real-life figures, particularly those involved in intense social or political movements. It often focuses on the long-term, often traumatic, consequences of their public lives and the personal disillusionment that can follow the initial fervor of activism. These films are less about historical accuracy of events and more about the emotional truth and the psychological toll on the individual, often presenting a bleak and unromanticized view of their subject's later life.

Social Trend: Mental Health in the Public Eye & Re-evaluating Activism

"Oxana" (2024) deeply resonates with the growing social trend of Mental Health in the Public Eye & Re-evaluating Activism. There's an increasing societal willingness to openly discuss mental health challenges, particularly burnout, depression, and trauma, among individuals in high-stress, high-exposure roles, including activists. The film reflects a cultural shift towards acknowledging the profound personal sacrifices demanded by radical movements and the often-unsupported psychological aftermath. It contributes to conversations about the sustainability of activism, the support systems (or lack thereof) for those on the front lines, and the critical importance of mental well-being even in the pursuit of justice. The film's depiction of Oxana's struggle provides a humanizing and often heartbreaking counter-narrative to the idealized image of tireless, unbreakable revolutionaries.

As of Wednesday, July 2, 2025, "Oxana" (2024) by Charlène Favier is still in the early stages of its theatrical release across Europe. Comprehensive critical and widespread audience reactions are continuing to develop. However, based on initial festival screenings and early release in some territories like France and Hungary (released July 3, 2025), we can form a preliminary picture.

Final Verdict: A Haunting Elegy to a Revolutionary Soul

"Oxana" (2024) by Charlène Favier is emerging as a profoundly poignant and unflinching biographical drama, offering a raw, intimate portrait of Oksana Shachko, a co-founder of the FEMEN movement, in her final days. Critics, particularly from European film circles like Cineuropa and Unifrance, are commending Favier's courageous and sensitive direction, which delves into the immense psychological toll of radical activism, trauma, and the crushing weight of disillusionment. The film's strength lies in its empathetic yet unsentimental gaze at a woman grappling with despair and the desperate search for meaning beyond her revolutionary past. While its box office, currently at approximately $93,099 from initial French screenings, reflects its arthouse distribution rather than its critical impact, "Oxana" is already being recognized as a vital, emotionally resonant work that sheds necessary light on the often-hidden human cost of fighting for change. It is a haunting elegy that promises to stay with viewers, compelling them to reflect on the complexities of idealism, sacrifice, and the enduring fragility of the human spirit.

Recommendations for filmmakers: Crafting Visceral Human Truths

• Embrace Unsentimental Intimacy in Biographical Narratives: "Oxana" bravely delves into the complexities and suffering of its real-life subject without romanticization. Filmmakers should be encouraged to approach biographical stories with a raw, unflinching intimacy, focusing on the character's internal landscape and the authentic, often difficult, truths of their experiences. Charlène Favier's style of getting "up close and personal" with her protagonist allows for a deeply empathetic yet honest portrayal. This means trusting in the power of subtle performances, nuanced emotional beats, and a camera that feels like an observer rather than a judge, giving the audience direct access to the character's lived reality, however painful.

• Prioritize Psychological Depth and the Aftermath of Conflict: The film's core strength is its exploration of the psychological toll of activism and trauma. Filmmakers should be supported in creating narratives that delve beyond the initial conflict or cause, examining the long-term emotional, mental, and physical consequences on the individuals involved. Highlighting the "aftermath" of significant life events or societal struggles provides crucial insight into the human condition. Directors should explore the silent battles characters face, the invisible wounds, and the process (or failure) of healing. This approach elevates genre films beyond surface-level plots into profound studies of human resilience and vulnerability.

• Utilize a Deliberate Pacing to Build Emotional Resonance: "Oxana" employs a measured pace that allows its heavy themes and emotional weight to fully settle with the audience. Filmmakers should trust in slow-burn storytelling when the narrative demands emotional immersion and reflection rather than constant plot progression. A patient pace can deepen audience engagement by allowing them to truly inhabit the character's state of mind and absorb the atmosphere. This requires confidence in the material and performances, ensuring every scene contributes to the emotional journey, even if it doesn't advance the plot quickly. This can lead to a more impactful and lasting viewer experience.

Recommendations for Movie Industry: Nurturing Essential Voices and Stories

• Invest in Socially Relevant Arthouse Cinema with Global Appeal: "Oxana" proves that films addressing complex social and political themes, even with difficult content, can find critical acclaim and a dedicated audience. The industry should continue to champion such projects, recognizing their cultural importance and their ability to resonate across borders. Supporting diverse narratives and artistic visions, particularly from regions and perspectives often underrepresented, enriches the global cinematic landscape. Distributors should focus on strategic, targeted releases for these films, leveraging critical praise and festival recognition to build momentum rather than solely relying on wide commercial appeal.

• Embrace Challenging and Uncomfortable Subject Matter: The film tackles themes of trauma, despair, and the personal cost of radical activism without flinching. The industry should encourage filmmakers to explore difficult, uncomfortable, and often taboo subjects with sensitivity and depth, understanding that such narratives can lead to powerful and necessary cinematic experiences. These films, while not always box office giants, contribute significantly to critical discourse and cultural understanding. Investing in them demonstrates a commitment to art that stimulates thought, provokes conversation, and reflects the complex realities of the world, fostering a more mature and diverse film ecosystem.

• Develop Robust Distribution Models for Niche European Cinema: With "Oxana" experiencing a staggered European release, the industry needs to refine and optimize strategies for independent and arthouse films to reach their audiences effectively. This includes maximizing festival exposure, securing key theatrical runs, and leveraging digital and VOD platforms strategically. A well-planned distribution strategy for niche films involves identifying and connecting with target audiences through specialized marketing, festival circuits, and partnerships with arthouse cinemas and streaming services. This ensures that valuable and critically acclaimed films, even with limited commercial scope, find their rightful place and achieve their full impact.

Final Conclusions: A Profound Testament to the Human Spirit's Scars

"Oxana" (2024) stands as a testament to Charlène Favier's compassionate yet unyielding directorial vision, offering a raw and unforgettable portrait of Oksana Shachko's final, desperate search for meaning. As the film embarks on its European release, early critical responses strongly affirm its power to deeply affect viewers, highlighting its intimate portrayal of psychological torment, the profound cost of activism, and the complex journey through disillusionment. While its financial performance, typical for a European arthouse drama, won't break records, its true success lies in its immense emotional weight and critical resonance. "Oxana" is a brave, necessary film that humanizes the struggles behind a public persona, forcing audiences to confront the often-unseen scars of revolution and the universal, aching vulnerability of the human spirit. It is a poignant and vital addition to contemporary cinema, destined to provoke thought and stir the soul.