EF PICTURES, founded in 2019 by Zlata Yefimenko, is a full-cycle production company specializing in the creation of short and feature-length narrative and documentary films. The company focuses on supporting young filmmakers and producing auteur cinema that explores pressing social issues. We take pride in collaborating with directors who boldly experiment and push the boundaries of traditional filmmaking. Our projects challenge stereotypes, expand the limits of cinema, and employ unconventional storytelling techniques.
Special attention is given to films that address important social issues such as inclusion, human rights, ecology, gender equality, and other pressing matters of contemporary society. Our goal is to create films that inspire dialogue and encourage a fresh perspective on societal challenges. EF PICTURES actively collaborates with international filmmakers and organizations, expanding the geographic scope of our projects and strengthening our impact on the global film industry.
Hostages of war
On February 24, a full-scale war began in Ukraine. Not only people, but animals also became hostages of this war. In peaceful times, they could be cared for, but during shelling, airstrikes, and the occupation by enemy forces, rescuing animals was nearly impossible
In her arms
A married couple returns to their de-occupied home, only to discover that the invisible presence of war still haunts them, symbolized by a booby trap lurking within their walls
Sad portraits
This is a story about three residents of a provincial town who work in a small supermarket: Pasha and Grigory are security guards, and Anzhelika is a cashier. Pasha lives with Anzhelika, but their relationship is on the verge of falling apart.
On Equals
The film is based on the stories of five people with disabilities who shared their professional experiences, both positive and negative. They talked about their habits, hobbies, dreams, and life goals. Together with the heroes, we get acquainted with their lives, entertainment, and workplaces.
Man with a foto camera
In 1990, the Ukrainian Republic stands on the path of self-identification. Aristakh, a forensic photographer, dreams of building a career as a professional photographer.
Beasts
A young NKVD officer, Afanasii Lapin, accidentally drops the portrait of Joseph Stalin while settling into his new residence. This incident makes him a true part of the system in a way he never expected.
Our Principles
Author-Driven Focus and Bold Forms
We collaborate with directors who experiment with form and explore essential social themes. We give space to emerging voices — from the first idea to release.between the original idea and the budget.
Inclusion and Accessibility
Our casting and crews are intentionally diverse. Locations and sets are accessible (including for wheelchair users); all materials include subtitles and audio descriptions. We budget for accessibility and work with inclusion consultants.
International Cooperation
We develop co-productions and partnerships with institutions abroad — from labs and markets to releases. This expands our projects’ geography and strengthens the impact of the films.
Distribution from Day One
Festival, theatrical, educational, and VOD strategies are built into the development stage. Each title has a defined audience plan, partner screenings, materials for schools and NGOs, and KPIs for reach and engagement.
Measurable Social Impact
Our films are meant to spark dialogue. For topics like human rights, gender equality, or ecology, we prepare discussion guides, public talks, and NGO-led campaigns, and we collect impact metrics (events, reach, feedback).
Ethical Producing and Safety
We reject exploitation of war, trauma, or vulnerable groups. Participants give informed consent; psychological support is available on set; safety and confidentiality protocols are mandatory. Our budgets include dedicated lines for team well-being.
