The Riga International Film Festival (RIGA IFF) kicks off October 16th with the highly anticipated national premiere of “Dieva suns” (God’s Sun), a visually striking animated feature from Latvian filmmakers Laura and Raitis Ābelis. The festival, now in its 12th year [[3]], serves as a key platform for Baltic and Nordic cinema, attracting industry professionals and film enthusiasts alike. This year’s program features over 100 films [[3]], with “God’s Sun” also representing Latvia in the running for the Academy Awards‘ “Best International feature Film” category.
“God’s Sun” Set to Captivate Audiences at Riga International Film Festival
The Riga International Film Festival (RIGA IFF) will open this year with “Dieva suns” (God’s Sun), the latest full-length animated feature from brothers Laura and Raitis Ābelis. The visually bold and stylistically unique film has already garnered international recognition and will now have its national premiere on October 16 at the Splendid Palace cinema.
About “God’s Sun”
“Dieva suns” is a provocative animated film that utilizes rotoscoping to take viewers on a fascinating journey through the twists and turns of Livonian history, exploring witch trials and mystical events. The film stands out for its unique visual style, inspired by the comics of Harijs Grundman, and is positioned to compete with the world’s best in animation.
The filmmakers aimed not only to reflect historical facts but also to delve into the prejudices and beliefs of the era. It’s designed to be more than just entertainment, offering a challenging experience for audiences, prompting reflection on historical interpretations and humanity’s place in the world.
Latvian Cinema at RIGA IFF
Other standout national films will also represent Latvia in the festival’s full-length film competition. Jānis Ābele’s documentary detective story, “Testaments,” invites audiences on an intriguing quest to uncover the final wishes of poet Anatols Imermanis. Meanwhile, Krista Burāne’s musical documentary, “Visi putni skaisti dzied” (All Birds Sing Beautifully), addresses the pressing issue of biodiversity loss in Latvia, seeking answers about the relationship between humans and nature through folk songs and birdsong.
The festival will showcase nine carefully selected full-length works from various countries, with particular attention also given to the achievements of film professionals from the Baltic Sea region and Nordic countries, enriching the diverse program.
About the Riga International Film Festival
The Riga International Film Festival (RIGA IFF) is one of the most significant cinematic events in Latvia, bringing together film professionals and audiences from around the globe since 2014. At the heart of the festival is the full-length film competition, which honors original and daring cinematic ideas. This year’s festival runs from October 16 to 26, offering a broad program including competition films and other specially curated cinematic gems.
The festival’s main prize – a bronze statuette and a cash award of 5,000 euros – will be awarded based on the assessment of a jury comprised of recognized film industry professionals. Tickets for screenings are already available on the festival’s website rigaiff.lv and at “Biļešu Serviss” ticket outlets.
“Dieva suns” is not only Latvia’s submission for the Academy Awards’ “Best International Feature Film” category but also a testament to the ability of Latvian animation to create world-class works. The nomination underscores Latvia’s growing presence on the international film stage.
