Navigating Personal Turmoil Amid War: A Review of 'How to Divorce During the War'

In a world overshadowed by global crises, the new film 'How to Divorce During the War' presents a unique blend of dark humor and poignant drama. Directed by Andrius Blaževičius, the film, which made its debut at the 2026 Sundance Film Festival, draws a parallel between the collapse of a marriage and the chaos of war, specifically Russia's invasion of Ukraine in early 2022.

The story centers on the strained relationship between Marija, portrayed by Žygimantė Elena Jakštaitė, and Vytas, played by Marius Repšys. As the couple faces the imminent threat of conflict, their personal struggles become a microcosm of larger societal issues. Marija, the primary breadwinner, is frustrated by Vytas's stagnation as a filmmaker and his infidelity, which propels her toward initiating a divorce.

The film opens with an unsettling prologue that establishes their troubled dynamic. A particularly intense car scene showcases the couple's explosive arguments, where Marija expresses her disillusionment with life while Vytas defends his role as a househusband. This moment sets the stage for the intertwining of their marital crisis with the backdrop of war.

As the Russian invasion unfolds, the couple attempts to navigate their separation amidst the upheaval. Marija's attempt at altruism by taking in a Ukrainian refugee family soon turns sour as she grapples with the disruption it brings to her already tumultuous life. Meanwhile, Vytas volunteers for humanitarian efforts, seeking redemption and inspiration for his work, yet finds himself at odds with his parents, who maintain pro-Russian sentiments.

Blaževičius employs a documentary-style approach, using static wide shots to create a sense of distance from his characters. This technique captures the absurdity of their lives while allowing the war to subtly infiltrate their existence through ambient news reports. The film oscillates between dramatic moments and dry humor, effectively portraying the couple's flawed attempts at compassion against the larger backdrop of regional conflict.

Despite the heavy themes, 'How to Divorce During the War' refrains from reducing its characters to mere caricatures. Instead, it explores their complex motivations, often prioritizing personal ambitions over global crises. The film's brisk pacing and engaging narrative keep the audience invested in Marija and Vytas's story, culminating in a telling scene where they momentarily escape reality by switching off the news in favor of entertainment.

'How to Divorce During the War' invites viewers to reflect on the paradox of personal crises occurring alongside significant global events. Zeitgeist Films is set to release the film in New York on August 21, with plans for a nationwide rollout.

Source: www.indiewire.com