A new crime drama offering a stark look at post-Soviet Latvia is drawing critical acclaim and audience interest both domestically and abroad. “the Dark blue Gospel,” directed by Oskars Rupenheits-whose previous work includes the popular “The Criminal Excellence Foundation”-premiered in Latvia earlier this month and recently screened at the Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival, one of Northern Europe’s leading cinematic events. The film explores the moral ambiguities faced by law enforcement during the turbulent “Wild Nineties” in riga, a period marked by rapid societal change and a surge in criminal activity following Latvia’s independence [[1]].
Latvian Crime Drama “The Dark Blue Gospel” Arrives in Theaters, Gains International Recognition
Latvian cinema fans are celebrating the long-awaited release of the crime drama “The Dark Blue Gospel.” The film, from director Oskars Rupenheits and his team – previously known for their success with “The Criminal Excellence Foundation” – is already shaping up to be one of the biggest domestic film events of the year. The movie offers a unique look into Latvia’s turbulent “Wild Nineties.”
“The Dark Blue Gospel” premiered in Latvia on October 8, 2025, at Forum Cinemas, where it was met with positive reviews and strong audience interest. As of October 10, the film is available nationwide, delivering a tense and captivating story set in 1990s Riga. The film has also garnered international attention, becoming part of the Baltic Film Competition program at the prestigious Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival (PÖFF), where it had its international premiere on November 19, 2025. PÖFF is one of the most significant film festivals in Northern Europe, ranking alongside Cannes, Berlin, and Venice as an A-category event.
A Return to the ‘90s: Gritty Realism and Moral Dilemmas
Set in 1995, “The Dark Blue Gospel” transports viewers to a period many associate with Latvia’s “Wild Nineties.” This was a time following the collapse of the Soviet Union, as the newly independent nation sought to define itself and adapt to rapidly changing circumstances. The streets of Riga were plagued by crime, corruption, and uncertainty, forcing law enforcement to operate in complex conditions where the line between right and wrong often blurred. The film promises an authentic and immersive experience of this era, allowing audiences to feel the atmosphere of the time in all its contradictions.
The story centers on Roman Skulte, a young criminal police investigator played by Raitis Stūrmanis. Arriving at the Riga police station with idealism and enthusiasm, Skulte quickly realizes that principles alone aren’t enough. To effectively combat the criminal underworld, he finds himself forced to compromise his own standards and bend the rules. “The Dark Blue Gospel” isn’t just a story about the nineties,” director Oskars Rupenheits emphasizes, “but about universal human themes that are always relevant – about choices, honesty, and how far a person is willing to go to achieve justice or simply survive.”
Despite the film’s dark subject matter, Rupenheits infuses the narrative with irony and humor, finding levity even in difficult situations. This blend creates a visually appealing and engaging cinematic experience. Notably, like Rupenheits’ previous film, “The Criminal Excellence Foundation,” “The Dark Blue Gospel” largely features non-professional actors, with one exception for a key female role.
Special Screening and Anticipation Builds
To celebrate the premiere of “The Dark Blue Gospel,” a special screening of Rupenheits’ beloved “The Criminal Excellence Foundation” was offered at select theaters. This unique pairing allowed audiences to revisit the popular crime comedy before diving into the new, emotionally charged story. Exclusive clips from “The Dark Blue Gospel” were shown before each film, with each theater receiving a unique preview.
As with “The Criminal Excellence Foundation,” “The Dark Blue Gospel” relies heavily on non-professional actors, aside from the performer in a significant female role. Available to audiences across Latvia since October 10, the film delivers a suspenseful and compelling narrative about 1990s Riga. Producer Sergejs Timonins hopes the film will be noticed by industry professionals, stating that the film’s success is the greatest reward for years of work. The release adds to a growing trend of internationally-focused crime dramas gaining traction with audiences.
