On April 24 at 7:40 PM, the channel 2+2 will premiere the four-episode mystical crime drama titled "Evil Spirits". Director Denys Tarasov opened up about the behind-the-scenes filming process, highlighting mysterious coincidences and the challenges encountered on set.

The series was partially filmed in the Carpathian Mountains, surrounded by rivers and forests.

"It was both work and a kind of retreat: scenic mountains, crisp air, welcoming locals, delicious cuisine, and a dose of adrenaline. Of course, we hoped for more time in the Carpathians, but managed within tight deadlines. We had a proper preparation phase — the team went on a location scouting expedition. Everything was meticulously planned," shared Denys Tarasov.

During production, a near-tragic incident occurred — coincidentally at the exact spot where the script depicts the characters’ car accident.

"Our crew nearly got into a crash at that very location. The operator, second director, and I were returning from a location shoot. The car was driven by a professional stuntman. The road was narrow and gravel-covered with loose stones — the vehicle skidded and veered off. We slid toward a ravine, heading straight for rocks by the river. For a moment, I thought it was the end. Miraculously, the car stopped without flipping over. No one was hurt, just rattled nerves and some damage to the car. The shock was so strong, our hands were trembling for the rest of the day. It’s hard not to believe in the supernatural after something like that," the director recounted.

The lead roles — a city detective named Markiyan and local officer Basyuk — are played by Oleksandr Yatsentyuk and Oleksandr Yarema. Tarasov remarked that their on-screen partnership became a highlight of the series.

"Basyuk is straightforward, honest, superstitious, and has a great sense of humor. Markiyan, on the other hand, is composed and logical. Their dynamic created an engaging and authentic duo," said the director. "Yarema constantly lifted the spirits of the crew, always cracking jokes — even in the heat and under tough conditions."

Another unexpected discovery was the actress who portrayed Mara — a semi-mystical figure in the story. She was found by chance while dining at a local restaurant.

"Showrunner Volodymyr Moskaltsev and I were out to eat when we noticed her and offered a role in the show. At first, she was stunned and declined — she had never acted or had any connection to cinema. But we quickly filmed a few test shots and knew right away — she was perfect! With the help of our makeup artists and costume designers, her transformation was stunning," Tarasov recalled.

One of the more unique aspects of the project was the involvement of actor Oleksa Horodenko, who portrayed a molfar — a kind of local sorcerer. According to Tarasov, Horodenko possesses genuine mystical knowledge:

"We were looking for someone whose presence would truly enrich our mystical story. Oleksa turned out to be not only an actor but an actual practicing molfar. He performed a cleansing ritual and even helped rewrite part of the script based on his spiritual guidance."

The crew worked under demanding conditions — some cast members had to lie in freezing rivers, while the cameraman stood waist-deep in water to get the perfect shot. Despite the hardships, everyone was pleased with the result, and the director promises it will be worth the wait.

Don’t miss the premiere of "Evil Spirits" on April 24 at 7:40 PM on channel 2+2.

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