One of us

This thesis explores the representation of Ukrainian migrants in contemporary Polish fiction film, focusing on how these depictions reflect existing stereotypes on migrants, identity, and othering. The study employs a qualitative content analysis approach grounded in cultural studies and film analysis theory. This research examines four feature fiction films produced between 2014 and 2023: Wołyń/Hatred (Smarzowski, 2016), Kler/Clergy (Smarzowski, 2018), Памфір/Pamfir, (Sukholytkyy-Sobchuk, 2022) and Zielona Granica/Green Border (Holland, 2023). These films were selected based on their thematic relevance, critical acclaim, and availability, reflecting on the evolving dynamics between Poland and Ukraine during the annexation of Crimea by the Russian Federation, and the full-scale invasion in 2022. The study identifies key themes in the portrayal of Ukrainian migrants, including their roles as workers, their family and cultural ties, and the socio-political contexts influencing their representation.
 The analysis reveals that these films contribute to a nuanced understanding of Ukrainian migrants, highlighting both the positive and negative aspects of their portrayal. On one hand, the films foster empathy and a sense of shared identity between Poles and Ukrainian migrants. On the other hand, they also perpetuate certain stereotypes that could reinforce societal biases. Through this analysis, the study aims to shed light on the socio-cultural dynamics between Poland and Ukraine as reflected in contemporary Polish cinema.