Like many of you, I have been following the tragic developments in Ukraine closely. I strongly believe that violence is never a solution, but I understand that the people of Ukraine have a right to defend themselves. They never wanted this war, and yet they are fighting it as bravely as they can.
Russia needs to know that actions have consequences, and that there’s a price to pay for invading another country in violation of international law. The world is imposing tough economic sanctions on Russia, and the same is happening in the world of entertainment, arts, and culture.
The famous conductor (and Putin supporter) Valery Gergiev is no longer welcome in concert venues all over the world. He was fired by his agent. The Metropolitan Opera in New York has banned all pro-Putin performers “in solidarity with the people of Ukraine,” adding that “we can no longer engage with artists or institutions that support Putin or are supported by him.”
The ban would prevail, general manager Gelb said, “until the invasion and killing has been stopped, order has been restored, and restitutions have been made.”
PERSONAL CONSEQUENCES
I neither have ties with Russia nor with Ukraine, but I have thought about what I would do, should a Russian company or agency approach me for a voice over. I know many Russians oppose this war as much as you and I do, and I took that into account.
Should the job offer come from a state-sponsored company, a government department, or a business run by a pro-Putin oligarch, I will wholeheartedly decline.
However, should a Ukrainian business, charity, agency, or department approach me for a voice over, I will offer my services for free.
Are you with me?
PADDINGTON
On a lighter note, did you see that Ukrainian president (and actor/comedian ) Volodymyr Zelenskyy did the voice in the Ukrainian dub of Paddington Bear, the movie, as well as the sequel?
Prior to his acting career, Zelenskyy obtained a degree in law. In 2006, he competed on the Ukrainian version of “Dancing with the Stars,” and won!
I hope and pray that peace and democracy will prevail in Ukraine, and that the aggressor will be brought to justice for war crimes and crimes against humanity.
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I am most definitely with you on Ukraine. May they have peace, liberty, and be restored as soon as possible, with limited further loss of life. May they emerge heroic and victorious!
Yes, I am with you, both in spirit, and in your sense of a just practical response. We are also making contributions to organizations offering humanitarian aid in Ukraine. … And, yes, we heard his voicing of Paddington… hadn’t seen his turn on DWTS – he’s good! Yet another instance of a resilient and human face on the Ukrainian struggle – something their attacker’s leadership lacks.
With you all the way, Paul. I have been contacted by Russian production companies in the past. Nothing ever came of it but, now, I’d have to know much more about any companies background before I considered even responding. My heart goes out to the Ukrainian people. They didn’t ask for or deserve an ounce of this.
Amen and amen, Paul. Preach it brother!
One of my biggest regular clients is from Ukrain. They are having a lot of trouble producing atm, as you can expect. They are still paying me for my services, but I am way more flexible then I normally am when it comes to payment terms, delivery etc.
Besides that me and my family are making contributions in the form of packages of necessary items for the people there, such as diapers, batteries, thermal clothing, food and more.
It’s a terrible situation.
While I have yet to establish my voice in the world of VO, I completely agree with your stance in support of Ukraine and it’s people. As a better-than-average proofreader, I will happily review, correct (if necessary) and offer to narrate, any translated Ukrainian content at my own expense.
With you 100%, my friend. There are also certain American companies and organizations I choose not to work with for related reasons. Even if I am anonymous to most who would hear it, I would not want my voice associated with what they’re selling or saying.
Viva Ukraine; pray for a miracle – or a hundred.
Maybe the world is starting to wake up and realize that people have more power than they give themselves credit for. The way the world has coalesced behind Ukraine redeems some hope in the human race after all!
Great blog Paul.
#UnitedwithUkraine
Yes, Paul. I stand behind the Ukrainian people and their fight for democracy. May they achieve victory and have everlasting peace. May all leaders of all countries make smart, good decisions for their people. Let there be peace on earth.
This totally makes sense; thank you for standing up and reminding us that each individual has choices they can make to show where they stand with their heart and brain! UKRAINE needs all our support and Putin and his supporters need to be in prison where they belong. This war is unlawful and just plain sickening. Praying for peace.
Indeed Paul. All the way!
And the trouble is, Putin is acting in a very self-serving way against the world, as the world shuns him for his demented nature and actions. I not only feel bad and will support the Ukrainians, but the people of Russia are not supporting Putin either. It’s a sad day in our world when a former KGB agent and mad dictator of Russia threaten territories that are not originally hostile to their neighboring country and he feels he wants to absorb their territory due to the riches of their country.
He doesn’t play well with others.
NATO….Take him out.