Mstyslav Chernov’s harrowing follow-up to his documentary 20 Days in Mariupol recognises the bravery of Ukraine soldiers, but is clear-eyed about the queasy absurdity of war.

The propulsive reportage of the first film gives way to an anguished existential howl. It’s equally powerful, but perhaps even bleaker.

Extraordinary, extremely powerful, and devastating in many ways.

Highlighting the humbling ordinariness of the combatants and their poignant camaraderie, Chernov refuses to spare us when it comes to casualties. Despair creeps into his voiceover, but weariness can't sap the zeal of the volunteers...