A Ukrainian folk song with a message of hope

Inspired by the Ukrainian folk song Shchedryk, more commonly known as Carol of the Bells, design and innovation company AKQA has launched this enchanting short film as its annual Christmas card. 

The video, titled Little Wings, was designed by award-winning production designer and artist Mariia Shub and her brother, animation director Rodion Shub, two Ukrainians temporarily displaced to the UK and Canada, to bring the story to life. 

Accompanied by the Shchedryk melody, the film follows a lonesome swallow’s adventure to guide carol singers to a family in need of renewed hope. The animated Christmas card aims to spread hope and awareness of the lives that have been impacted by the war in Ukraine. 

Reflecting on the creative process, Mariia Shub said: “Little Wings is a beautiful way to share that Shchedryk is a Ukrainian song, and to learn its roots. Few people know that it was composed and performed during a previous time of intense political struggle and social upheaval in Ukraine. It is always sung together in a choir, making the music a connector of people.”