The 29th Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival (PÖFF) is set to commence on March 3, 2025, presenting an eclectic array of films that push creative boundaries. Under the leadership of Tiina Lokk, the festival will showcase world premieres and notable entries from the previous year’s festival circuit. This year’s selection promises a mix of arthouse gems and bold narratives that challenge conventional storytelling.
Among the featured films is Electing Ms Santa, an observational documentary from Moldova that follows Elena, a determined woman with political aspirations. The film, directed by Raisa Răzmeriță, chronicles Elena’s journey as she balances her ambition to become mayor with her community responsibilities, including organizing local initiatives and caring for the elderly. Filmed over seven years, the documentary reveals the pressures Elena faces from her family and community as she navigates her desire for personal fulfillment.
Another intriguing entry is The Baronesses, a film that explores the dreams of four grandmothers who decide to stage a production of Hamlet in Brussels. Co-directed by Nabil Ben Yadir and his mother, Mokhtaria Badaoui, the story follows Fatima, who, after facing disappointment in her quest for a new home, rekindles her passion for Shakespeare. The film combines elements of empowerment and magical realism, promising a unique cinematic experience.
The festival also features Scarecrows, directed by Laila Pakalniņa. This documentary uncovers the often-overlooked interactions between humans and wildlife at Riga International Airport in Latvia. It humorously depicts the efforts of a team of “runway rangers” who work to keep animals off the runways, showcasing the absurdities of their daily battles against nature while ensuring passenger safety.
In a darker vein, Interior, the debut feature from German director Pascal Schuh, delves into the unsettling world of a burglar named Kasimir. Using a couch with a secret compartment, he films the private lives of unsuspecting homeowners for a psychologist. The film raises poignant questions about privacy, morality, and the human experience, making it a thought-provoking watch.
Another noteworthy documentary, My Family and Other Clowns, provides an intimate look at the lives of the children of two renowned Estonian clowns, Haide and Toomas. Through the lens of their daughter Emma, the film explores the complexities of growing up in a household where joy is performed for the public, but personal struggles remain hidden.
The festival will also screen 18 Holes to Paradise, a family drama directed by João Nuno Pinto. The film revolves around a family grappling with their father’s house amidst a backdrop of environmental crisis, highlighting themes of family dynamics and societal change as they navigate a wildfire threatening their region.
Kyrgyz filmmaker Amanbek Azhymat brings his feature Backstage Madness, a comedic take on the absurdities of filmmaking. The story follows a 70-year-old director who continues to create vivid characters despite the challenges he faces. The film promises a humorous exploration of the creative process, resonating with anyone familiar with the artistic struggle.
Lastly, K-Poper, directed by Iranian filmmaker Ebrahim Amin, tells the story of a teenage girl obsessed with a K-pop star. Caught between her dreams and her conservative household’s expectations, the film sheds light on cultural clashes and the pursuit of passion against societal norms.
The Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival continues to be a platform for diverse voices in cinema, showcasing films that challenge perceptions and stimulate dialogue. With this year’s lineup, audiences can look forward to a captivating exploration of culture, identity, and the human experience.
