Uncover the enchanting world of ‘Cossacks’ on Crackle with Oksana Ivanyuk Beyond the Mic! From sword & sorcery to personal anecdotes, this episode is a journey you won’t want to miss!
Welcome Oksana Ivanyuk
We’re joined on the Starline by the executive producer and showrunner of a unique series for ICTV, the largest Ukrainian TV network. Winner of the 14th State Film Agency documentary project. Six months of work creating 12 episodes with almost entirely Ukrainian actors the series “Cossacks” now on Crackle. We welcome Oksana Ivanyuk.
Oksana, let’s go Beyond the Mic. Your show “Cossacks” is a sword and sorcery series that doesn’t take itself too seriously. Did this story come from your own childhood or stories your grandfather used to tell you? Where was the origin of this story?
What’s so special about Oleg Zbrorovsky? You two must have such a great relationship to share ideas like this.
Ivan, the peasant is a fun loving likeable man who’s goal to free his mother from the clutches of the Ottomans.
What does Ivan represent in today’s society?
How did this cast of actors give your project life and if you had to do it all over again from scratch, would you change anything?
What does it mean for you to have “Cossacks” being available to an American audience especially to share your culture with us?
The Rockin’ 8:
It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure.
1. Favorite place in Milwaukee?
2. Best thing about your husband?
3. Last gift you gave your son?
4. Favorite story you read growing up?
5. Favorite place to vacation?
6. Biggest misconception about your country?
7. Favorite dish that only your mother can cook?
8. Which director inspired you growing up?
The Back Half:
The show was in pre-production of its second season when war broke out. Your pyrotechnition Olexander was killed in May of 2022. Your actors and crew, family to you from the production are on the front lines. What does their safe return mean to you?
Your neighbors collected empty bottles to make Molotov cocktails for your countries defense. How has your country tighter than ever before?
12 episodes of Cossacks so far, how many ideas do you have?
So you are letting your Cossacks play around in history?
While war continues, you are continuing to write. You have 12 or more series you are working on including mythical detective story “Diggers of the Sun”. Where do you draw your ideas from?
How has your family supported you growing up? How did they support your creativity?
Who mentored your storytelling?
Why will people fall in love with “Cossacks”?
One Big Question:
As missiles fly and bombs drop in your country, how do you remain hopeful for your future and the future of your country?
The Wrap:
She loves the lakeshore in Milwaukee, a good borscht and her huskie. Oksana wants you to watch “Cossacks” on Crackle. Oksana Ivanyuk, thank you for taking the time to talk to us today.
And that my friends is Beyond the Mic.
Listen to other Beyond the Mic conversations with other TV stars / shows here.
Watch Episode of Cossacks here.
