Winter Tale – Triumph of Light Over Darkness

Siostry Bui: FB: /film.bui, Insta: /buifilm
Music: / @lookthatistheartist

This holiday season, we present to you a festive video postcard – a tale inspired by winter stories and the native tradition of Szczodre Gody, which still influences modern holidays. We share a story, once heard, once seen, now retold anew.

The costumes for this tale were created from recycled materials, caring for our planet and the future of the next generations. Below is a detailed description of the symbolism incorporated into the imagery.

We would also like to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who supported our crowdfunding campaign. We wish you a wonderful, light-filled holiday season! May prosperity and joy be with you!

Symbolism

Szczodre Gody – Triumph of Light Over Darkness

Szczodre Gody, celebrated from the winter solstice (December 21/22) to January 6, is one of the most important holidays in Slavic tradition. It symbolizes the rebirth of light as the sun begins to triumph over darkness and the days grow longer. This festival marks the beginning of the new year in the Slavic calendar and represents a time of transition, magic, and reflection.

Bonfires and the Symbolism of Rebirth

Lighting bonfires was central to Szczodre Gody celebrations. The flames symbolized the strength of the reborn sun and supported Swarożyc or Dadźbóg – solar deities believed to fight against darkness. However, the central figure of this time is Weles, the deity of the underworld, magic, wealth, and livestock.

Carollers – Messengers of the Otherworld

Carollers played a vital role during Szczodre Gody. Going from house to house in masks and costumes, they symbolized beings from the otherworld, such as ancestral spirits, animals, or mythical figures. Their songs and dances had a magical nature, invoking prosperity, abundance, and fertility for the coming year.

The Song „Szczedryk”

„Szczedryk” is a traditional Ukrainian folk song, globally known as the basis for the carol „Carol of the Bells.” Arranged in 1916 by Mykola Leontovych, it was originally sung during Szczodre Gody, celebrating prosperity and abundance.

Sharing Bread

The Szczodre Gody evening began with sharing bread, a symbol of unity and community (today replaced by sharing wafers). Predictions for the coming year were made based on the weather during the 12 days of celebration. Gifts such as fruits and nuts symbolized abundance and the renewal of life (modern-day presents). Szczodre Gody celebrates light’s rebirth, community, and a deep connection to nature.

In the Video

Cast:
Girl with a Star: Noemi
Little Caroller: Mia
Carollers: Sylwia Domańska, Beata Godlewska, Martyna Tejwan, Karolina Barszczewska, Monika Jabłonowska, Iwona Czapla, Julia Bui

Cinematography: Mai Bui
Costumes and Props: Julia Bui
One caroller mask by: Герця Гронова
Editing, Post-production, Animation, and Color: Julia Bui
Music: „Szczedryk” performed by the Academic Choir of the National Radio of Ukraine, conducted by Yuliya Tkach
Assistance: Adam Wrzosiński, Wiktor
Direction: Siostry Bui

Wishing you warm and peaceful holidays!