In March, the Russian army was closing in on the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv, and it was expected to fall in a short period of time. But in fact, many citizens chose to remain in their beloved city and provide resistance in whatever way they could. Despite daily missile attacks and the fear of an impending urban war, they were united in their efforts to protect their freedom and democracy. This documentary looks at the people of Kyiv through the eyes of a Ukrainian filmmaker.

We follow 21 dancers from Ukraine's famed National Opera and Ballet Theater on their summer Japan tour. Since Russia's invasion, many company members escaped Kyiv for cities across Europe to continue practicing their art. But they have conflicted feelings about leaving their families back home. In their first overseas tour they reunite in Japan to perform in 16 cities and honor their country. NHK cameras capture the company members' month-long emotional journey.