Hell Jumper

EXPECTATION ENTERTAINMENT FOR BBC (2024)

A new look at the story of the war in Ukraine, captured through the eyes – and the extraordinary first-person footage – of a group of volunteers saving strangers’ lives in one of the most dangerous places on earth. It is an unforgettable and immersive story of courage, passion and loss among idealistic young people risking their lives in the middle of a war zone, without military support.

REVIEWS

“Paddy Wivell’s film about the volunteers who risk their lives to evacuate citizens trapped in Ukraine was a masterclass in storytelling.”
The Times

“Hell Jumper is, more importantly, directed by Paddy Wivell, and if you saw the superb series Kids you’ll recognise Wivell’s friendly voice, softly lobbing impertinent questions from behind the camera. You’ll also know his strange ability to create an environment where interviewees recalling their biggest traumas are happy to answer those questions, revealing difficult truths other film-makers might have left unsaid.”
The Guardian

“A heart stopping tale of youth, courage and tragedy”
The Telegraph

“This unbearably sad film is part of his memorial; the rest of it lives in the hearts of the strangers he took to safety.”
The Independent