Latvia’s National Film Centre has announced a new lineup of experts to oversee its 2026 film project competitions, ensuring a fresh perspective on the country’s burgeoning cinematic landscape. The appointments follow the completion of terms for the previous expert panel, as dictated by the Centre’s regulations.
The National Film Centre invited Latvian film industry organizations and individual specialists to nominate candidates for the expert committees, which will evaluate projects for feature films, documentaries, and animated films. According to a statement from the Centre, the goal is to maintain a constructive collaboration with active members of the film community throughout the project evaluation process.
Potential candidates were assessed based on their experience in the film industry, educational background, and nominations from public organizations. The Film Council approved the final composition of the committees on February 11, selecting experts from among those who applied for the positions.
The new experts will begin their work with the 2026 new film production competition, with applications closing on March 19. Here’s a look at who will be evaluating submissions:
Feature Film Committee:
- Kristīne Sīmsone, film critic (nominated by the Latvian Film Producers Association)
- Andris Gauja, director, producer, and film distributor (individual application)
- Daira Āboliņa, film scholar, cultural journalist, and artistic director of the Splendid Palace cinema (National Film Centre delegate)
Documentary Film Committee:
- Māris Prombergs, director of Kino Bize cinema, festival curator, and social anthropologist (nominated by the Latvian Film Producers Association)
- Inga Pērkone, film scholar and director of the Latvian Film Museum (nominated by the Latvian Film Producers Association)
- Andis Mizišs, director (National Film Centre delegate, nominated by the Latvian Filmmakers’ Union)
Animation Film Committee:
- Ieva Viese, film scholar (nominated by the Latvian Film Producers Association)
- Jurģis Krāsons, artist, director, and screenwriter (nominated by the Latvian Film Producers Association)
- Dzintars Krūmiņš, director, artist, and educator (National Film Centre delegate)
The announcement of these new appointments comes as Latvia continues to develop its presence in the international film community. The National Film Centre’s commitment to a diverse and experienced panel of judges signals a dedication to supporting high-quality film production within the country.
