Someone once told me, wars don’t start with explosions, they start with silence.” So begins Ukrainian journalist Mstyslav Chernov in his 2024 Oscar-winning documentary chronicling Russia’s siege of Mariupol in the early days of the war. Mstyslav and his two Associated Press colleagues – the only international journalists left in the city – capture the collapse of normalcy and descent into chaos as Russian forces bombard the strategically situated port city. Along with scenes of devastation and tragedy, the film shows quiet moments of human fortitude, resilience, solidarity and decency. 20 Days in Mariupol is a powerful first-hand account of the impact of war on ordinary citizens as well as the vital work of journalists who put themselves at risk to bring these stories to the world. English-Canadian broadcast premiere.