Shout! Factory
DVD Release Date:
Aug 15, 2023
This summer, families are invited to discover the fantastical world of ancient forests and be enchanted by the captivating adventure of Mavka, a guardian and soul of the forest, in the new CG-animated fantasy feature Mavka The Forest Song.
Produced by Ukraine-based Animagrad Animation Studio (Stolen Princess) amid the ongoing attack from Russia, the filmmaking process for this film was arduous and hindered by continuous armed bombardment, gunfire, unrest, and massive property destruction onsite. As reported by Variety, the Mavka production team “continued to work from their homes and from bomb shelters. Some fled to Europe and continued to work on the ambitious animated project remotely.”
Based on the Ukrainian drama “The Forest Song” by celebrated poet and author Lesya Ukrainka, Mavka: The Forest Song. unfolds in a universe that blends ancient Slavic traditions and folklore with a modern narrative that showcases Ukrainian culture, values, designs, and music. The book (on Amazon) is available for those able to read this slavic language, and is the perfect teaser for the movie. This animated take a rousing soundtrack (also available on Amazon) written by well-known Ukrainian musicians, a mix of folk tunes in modern adaptations, and compositions created especially for this animated adventure. In addition to having an engaging storyline and memorable characters, this uplifting and colourful animated fairytale is bolstered by a strong young female lead character, fascinating folklores, and the relevant theme of environmental conservation.
Oleg Malamuzh and Sasha Ruban direct the English-language movie. The movie features a talented voice cast of Laurie Hymes (Lupin III: The First), Eddy Lee (Your Name), Sarah Natochenny (Pokemon Master Journeys), Tom Wayland (Pokemon), Marc Thompson (Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles), Scottie Ray (Zane Truesdale), HD Quinn (A Night Before Christmas), Nikki Thomas (Pathfinder: Wrath of the Righteous), Alyson Leigh Rosenfeld (Pokemon), and Mike Pollock (A Cat in Paris).
Mavka: The Forest Song Movie Synopsis
Mavka – the soul of the forest – has been chosen by the supreme spirits to become the forest’s new guardian. But when she meets a talented human musician named Lucas–a man on the hunt for a mysterious tree with the power to give life, she is faced with an impossible choice between her newfound love and her duty to the spirits. Can humans and the forest live in harmony, or will greed and vice destroy them both?
DVD Bonus Features:
- Featurette
- Music Video
- Trailers