Checkpoint Zoo – Ukrainian Spring Film Marathon

The Ukrainian Spring Film Marathon returns on April 11, 2026 with “Checkpoint Zoo.”

The evening includes an introductory presentation, the film screening, and a post-film discussion and Q&A.

About “Checkpoint Zoo”

In the early days of the Russian-Ukrainian war, Kharkiv, the country’s second-largest city, was turned into a warzone. On one side of the battlefield was the invading Russian army; on the other side, the defending Ukrainians; and caught in between them was a zoo called Feldman Ecopark.

More than just a zoo, Feldman Ecopark was an animal sanctuary that offered countless therapy programs to everyone from soldiers with PTSD to children with special needs. As the war raged on, and the shelling increased, it was clear that the bravery of the staff wouldn’t be enough to save the animals trapped inside. 

With the help of four young volunteers, these zookeepers would undertake a seemingly impossible mission – they would risk life and limb to evacuate over 5,000 animals, including scores of dangerous predators, and deliver them to safety.

Drawing on first-hand footage, award-winning filmmaker Joshua Zeman’s “Checkpoint Zoo” tells the story of human compassion, bravery, and sacrifice during Ukraine’s darkest hours. It shines a light on the best of humanity when it is all too easy to focus on the worst. 

About “Checkpoint Zoo” | Trailer

Time

5:00 PM — Doors Open
5:30-7:30 PM — Movie Screening
7:30-8:00 PM — Discussion

Registration

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ukrainian-spring-film-marathon-checkpoint-zoo-tickets-1986234710487

Seating is limited. Early RSVP recommended.

Fifty percent (50%) of the net proceeds from this event will benefit Nova Ukraine, located at 425 Page Mill Road, FL 2, Palo Alto, CA 94306, a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation. Nova Ukraine’s annual report and more information are available at novaukraine.org.

Parking Information

Discounted parking available between 3-9 PM at 825 Sansome Street, San Francisco. Parking is $15 per vehicle, with an additional $10 fee for oversized vehicles. Guests should mention they are attending the Ukrainian Spring Film Marathon to receive the discounted rate.

Nova Ukraine | Ukrainian Spring Film Marathon

San Francisco, Spring 2026

This spring, Nova Ukraine invites you to join the Ukrainian Spring Film Marathon — a curated cinema series dedicated to Ukrainian storytelling, culture, strength, and resolve.

It’s a community gathering with expert introductions, post-film discussions, and the kind of conversations that stay with you long after the credits roll.

Hosted at C Ukraine Cultural Showcase in downtown San Francisco, this Cinema Club project creates a space where film becomes dialogue.

With the support of the Consulate General of Ukraine in San Francisco, we are building a regular cultural forum that strengthens Ukrainian-American ties through art, discussion, and shared experience.

About the Venue

C Ukraine is a cultural space and pop-up store that showcases and celebrates Ukrainian art, heritage, and innovation.

Address: 875 Sansome St, San Francisco, CA

Guests can explore Ukrainian traditions, contemporary design, and creative brands — and now, engage with Ukrainian cinema in an intimate setting.

Full Spring 2026 Screening Dates

Please be advised that the dates and times are subject to change.

April 11 – 5:00-8:00 PM

April 25 – 5:00-8:00 PM

May 10 – 5:00-8:00 PM

May 23 – 5:00-8:00 PM

Disclaimer:

Nova Ukraine reserves the right to use photos and videos taken during the event for marketing and publicity on our website, social media, or any third-party publication. If you do not wish to be photographed, please inform an event organizer and/or a photographer.

Nova Ukraine shall implement reasonable measures to prevent unauthorized recording or duplication during the screening at the event.