Congratulations to MPI Grad Heidi Philipsen on Her Solo Directorial Debut!
We are thrilled to celebrate the incredible achievement of our MPI graduate, Heidi Philipsen, as she makes her solo directorial debut with the film “Love and Vodka.” This remarkable Ukrainian-American romantic comedy will premiere at the Cinetopia Film Festival in Ann Arbor on June 23, 2024.
“Love and Vodka” tells the poignant story of a high school film teacher who, in 2018, fell in love with a Ukrainian exchange student and journeyed to Ukraine to propose and meet her family. The film’s narrative poignantly unfolds against the backdrop of real-life events, including the outbreak of war, embodying themes of love, resilience, and transatlantic friendship.
Philipsen’s dedication to this project is truly inspiring. Despite facing numerous challenges, including a transatlantic move, the emergence of COVID-19, and the tragic war in Ukraine, she persevered with passion and determination. Her journey from Michigan to Germany and her deep commitment to telling this story reflect her strength as both an artist and an activist.
Heidi’s work on “Love and Vodka” not only highlights her filmmaking prowess but also her empathy and activism. While creating this film, she actively supported Ukrainian refugees, helping them find homes and language lessons and donating essentials to volunteers. Her actions remind us of the power of storytelling to bridge cultures and inspire hope.
We invite everyone to join us in supporting Heidi Philipsen and her heartfelt film. Catch the premiere of “Love and Vodka” at Cinetopia Film Festival in Ann Arbor on June 23, 2024, at 5 p.m. For more information about the screening and festival, visit the Cinetopia Film Festival website.
Congratulations, Heidi! We are immensely proud of your achievements and look forward to witnessing your continued success in the film industry.
For a preview of “Love and Vodka” and to support this film, visit Love and Vodka Movie.
