Ukrainian film “KILLHOUSE”: the first tactical action-thriller featuring real heroes and cutting-edge technology
The Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine has unveiled an innovative full-length Ukrainian action-thriller film titled “KILLHOUSE,” which is set to become the country’s pioneering entry into the genre of tactical military cinema.
This cinematic project was developed through collaborative efforts and with the support of the Ukrainian Defense Intelligence, the Security Service of Ukraine, and several elite units of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, including the renowned 3rd Assault Brigade.
Director Lyubomyr Levitsky emphasized that more than 80% of those involved in filming are actual Ukrainian military personnel, lending authenticity and realism to the movie.
“Today, Ukrainian soldiers demonstrate a mastery level that captivates the world.
‘KILLHOUSE’ showcases how our top units operate, the advanced equipment they employ, and the difficult decisions they make in high-stakes situations.
This film is for them and about them,” the director stated.
The plot is based on a real evacuation operation where Ukrainian special forces rescue civilians and their 14-year-old daughter from occupied territory under enemy fire.
The story centers around an American journalist witnessing the mission and facing a moral dilemma upon discovering that the hostage-taker holds her own daughter.
The operation involves U.S.
intelligence agencies, transforming into an international fight for life and justice.
“Creating a high-quality full-length film capable of attracting global attention, showcasing Ukraine’s war for independence, and highlighting the professionalism, technological advancements, and bravery of our military is a crucial and noble endeavor.
We thank Lyubomyr Levitsky and his team for their collaboration—supporting Ukrainian cinema has been an honor for us,” said Andriy Yusov from the Ukrainian Defense Intelligence.
The movie features authentic military hardware such as Black Hawk helicopters, modern communication systems, drones, and armored vehicles, providing a realistic combat scene recreated by military experts, including FPV drone operators and assault teams.
The project received a production grant from the Berlinale World Cinema Fund and aims for wide international reach.
The main cast includes servicemen from GUR, SBU, and the 3rd Assault Brigade, along with notable actors like Serhiy Strelknov, Denys Kapustin, Oleksandra Soroka, Valeriy Velychko, and English-speaking actress Audrey MacAlpine.
Levitsky, also the screenwriter, announced the start of filming in May 2025, with the release scheduled for early 2026.
The film will run approximately two hours and will be accessible for viewers with hearing and sight impairments.
This ambitious cinematic project promises to resonate deeply both within Ukraine and globally, illustrating the resilience, heroism, and high-tech capabilities of the Ukrainian military through a compelling and authentic story of modern warfare.