You are warmly invited to a special evening of film, music, and community spirit, presented by Dot Dot Dot Connect, in partnership with the Austin Film Society and the Ukrainian National Women’s League of America.
EMPATHY IN ACTION: A FILMMAKER’S DRIVE TO HELP
Special Screening of the award-winning documentary, In the Rearview, by a Polish film director, Maciek Hamela.
DATE: Thursday, May 22
TIME: 7:00 – 9:30 P.M.
LOCATION: AFS Cinema | 6259 Middle Fiskville Rd, Austin, TX 78752
DETAILS: https://dotdotdotconnect.org/calendar/empathy-in-action-a-filmmakers-drive-to-help/
TICKETS: https://www.austinfilm.org/screening/in-the-rearview/
EVENT HIGHLIGHTS:
- In the Rearview (original title Skąd dokąd), 84 min
- Pre-recorded Q&A with director Maciek Hamela
- Live piano performance by Ukrainian refugee pianist and composer Alex Syedin
- Silent auction featuring unique artworks, products, and services donated by local businesses and artists — all proceeds support humanitarian aid
- Reception with authentic Ukrainian & Polish refreshments
When Russia invaded Ukraine, filmmaker Maciek Hamela didn’t set out to make a documentary. He simply wanted to help like many other Poles extending humanitarian aid to neighbors under attack. As he drove refugees away from the front lines toward safety, his van became more than just a vehicle — it became a shelter, a hospital, a confessional, a lifeline to safety and a fragile sense of normalcy. Moved by the stories unfolding around him, Hamela began filming. The resulting film, In the Rearview, is a powerful, unscripted portrait of survival, praised for its emotional depth and honesty — without graphic violence or exploitation. The film has earned more than 30 international awards and was shortlisted for the 2024 Academy Awards.
“We’re trying to use this coverage to remind everybody that the war is still going on and lives need saving. And Ukraine is not going to win it without our help.” — Maciek Hamela
Empathy in Action is more than a screening of a remarkable film — it’s a call to connect, reflect, and support those still affected by the ongoing war in Ukraine.
🎟 Reserve your seat: Get Tickets
📩 Questions? Contact us: info@dotdotdotconnect.org
💛 Inspired to give? Donate directly to ARTAK, a humanitarian aid organization delivering critical support inside Ukraine.
