News Summary
Philip Forgit, a Williamsburg resident and U.S. Navy veteran, is set to release a documentary titled ‘Assurance’ that documents the ongoing conflict in Ukraine following Russia’s invasion. The film seeks to highlight personal stories from Ukrainian soldiers and civilians, focusing on themes of hope and betrayal, particularly in relation to U.S. support. Currently in post-production, Forgit has filmed in various regions of Ukraine and aims to raise funds to complete the project.
Williamsburg Filmmaker Documents Ukrainian War in Upcoming Documentary
Williamsburg resident Philip Forgit is set to release a documentary titled “Assurance” in January 2026, exploring the ongoing conflict in Ukraine that began with Russia’s invasion in February 2022. The film aims to highlight the experiences and emotions of Ukrainian soldiers and civilians, focusing on their hopes, fears, and feelings of betrayal by the U.S. government.
The documentary is currently in post-production, during which Forgit and his team in Los Angeles are working diligently to edit approximately four months’ worth of footage into a feature-length film. Forgit is actively seeking financial support to complete the production of “Assurance.”
Forgit, who is also a U.S. Navy veteran and has previous experience as a public school teacher and businessman, has a profound connection to the subject. He previously directed the documentary “Lions of Babylon: A Soldier’s Story” in 2011, which adds to his credentials in tackling complex and sensitive issues revolving around war.
Focus on Key Themes
Importantly, “Assurance” deals with the sentiment among the Ukrainian people regarding their past disarmament of nuclear weapons, which they believed guaranteed their security and allyship with the U.S. The documentary portrays a feeling of abandonment by the U.S. after this disarmament, thereby raising critical questions about the nature of international alliances.
In his effort to capture the conflict authentically, Forgit conducted filming in Ukraine during two significant periods: late 2024 and from April to June 2025. His coverage included areas in the Donbas region and the capital city of Kyiv, providing a comprehensive look at both frontline and civilian experiences amid the war.
Personal Experience and Safety Measures
Drawing from his background as a veteran of the Iraq War, Forgit is no stranger to conflict zones. However, he described his experiences while filming in Ukraine as surreal. The realities of battle and the dangers associated with documenting such events were starkly evident as he reviewed the footage.
To ensure his safety while entering the conflict zone, Forgit collaborated with Dawn Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing medical supplies and support within Ukraine. This partnership not only facilitated logistic support but also underscored the humanitarian aspects involved in the research and filming processes.
Documentary Implications and Increase in Financial Support
The documentary captures raw and authentic scenes of combat, while also highlighting the sentiments of Ukrainian soldiers who express a feeling of betrayal from their perceived partnership with Western allies. A notable discourse within the film revolves around whether the relationship they expected with the U.S. was merely a “golden American deal.” Forgit’s vision for the documentary extends beyond the immediate context of the Ukrainian conflict, as he believes it signifies a moment of critical importance for democracy worldwide.
In light of these facts and the passionate commitment demonstrated by Forgit, he sold his Menchie’s franchise to finance his work on the documentary. This indicates not only his dedication to documenting this significant chapter in history but also the financial challenges faced in bringing such a project to fruition.
As the release date approaches, the stories and experiences encapsulated within “Assurance” are anticipated to generate discussions about the complexities of international relationships, the consequences of war, and the importance of understanding the human side of conflict.
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Additional Resources
- Variety: Notes of a True Criminal Review
- The Wrap: A Simple Soldier Review
- Daily Press: Williamsburg Filmmaker Produces Documentary about War in Ukraine
- The Guardian: 2000 Meters to Andriivka Review
- Google Search: Ukrainian War
Author: STAFF HERE WILLIAMSBURG WRITER
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