The Challenge

Skywalkers traces the globe-trotting artistry of performers Angela and Ivan, weaving together footage from circus tents in Russia to soccer stadiums in Brazil. Early in production, the war in Ukraine created major obstacles: Russian archives hesitated to cooperate, and Ukrainian contacts sometimes vanished as contributors went to the front lines. Securing permissions required not just archival know-how but also diplomatic finesse and extraordinary perseverance.

Our Approach

Innovative Sourcing
Jennifer tapped social platforms—YouTube, Instagram, and niche sites like Circopedia—to discover rare circus performances and historic cityscapes. With help from a Russian-born producer serving as translator and fixer, the team established direct lines to performers and archivists abroad. These relationships yielded unique video and photo assets otherwise unavailable through traditional channels.

Legal & Logistical Navigation
Meghan worked closely with international legal advisors to understand varying copyright laws—some countries restrict perpetual rights—negotiating tailored agreements that balanced both parties’ needs. When standard licensing proved impossible, the team explored limited-term or territory-specific deals, ensuring compliance without derailing the production.

Cultural & Narrative Integration
To honor Angela and Ivan’s nomadic spirit, the Ninjas selected footage that captured each locale’s energy—from bustling St. Petersburg circuses to Rio’s carnival streets. This global tapestry not only enriched the film visually but also underscored the artists’ constant movement, turning otherwise familiar urban backdrops into dynamic story elements.

The Impact

By blending unconventional sources with meticulous legal groundwork, Skywalkers offers an authentically global perspective. Audiences gain firsthand glimpses of international performance art, experiencing the film as both a personal journey and a celebration of cross-cultural collaboration.

Behind the Scenes & Lessons Learned

Jennifer recalls dozens of late-night calls chasing down contributors across time zones. “We learned that real-world events—from warzones to shifting copyright laws—can upend any schedule,” she says. Meghan adds, “Having a dedicated fixer and early legal consultation isn’t optional; it’s essential for any project spanning multiple countries.”

Project Outcome

Skywalkers: A Love Story premiered to numerous accolades, including being Nominated for the Grand Jury Prize in Documentary at the Sundance Film Festival. The darling at over a dozen film festivals, Skywalkers has been praised for its vivid international scope and innovative archival approach. Its success underscores the power of persistence, partnership, and creativity when telling stories that cross borders—and reminds us that, even in the most challenging circumstances, the archive holds the keys to global narratives.