Zelensky tells the extraordinary tale of a boy born in the Soviet Union, who, in 2022, found himself at the head of a country being invaded by Russia. The Ukrainian president’s memories, recalled in an exclusive interview, are interspersed with accounts from those who witnessed his youth and rise to power. Featuring rare access to President Zelenksy and the people who have known him since his childhood – as well as photos, film archives and never-before-seen eyewitness accounts – this film paints a picture of both the president and his country.
This episode delves into his early years in “District 95”, where Volodia grew up wearing the red scarf of the Pioneers (the communist youth organisation). Even then, he dreamt of becoming famous to escape the dreary rubbish heaps and blast furnaces of Kryvyï Rih.
Next followed an adolescence marked by both the hopes and chaos of Ukrainian independence. It was at this time that Zelensky became passionate about KVN, a famous game show originating in Moscow. Today, the competition continues to forge ties with post-Soviet states by making the wildest and smartest students of the former Soviet Empire battle for prestigious prizes. As the Kryvyï Rih team rose through the ranks, Volodia was recruited to help strengthen their lineup.
Before long, this small pack of Ukrainians were touring constantly and the gates of Moscow opened up to them. In this way, Zelensky landed a spot on the largest Russian television channel. In 2003, Volodia returned to Ukraine and launched his own production house. From Saturday night specials sprinkled with political humour to sappy romcoms co-produced with Russia, Volodymyr Zelensky became a king of TV in Ukraine and beyond.