Oscar-Nominated Film “Sirāts” Arrives in Latvian Cinemas
Latvian audiences will have the opportunity to experience director Oliver Laxe’s latest work, “Sirāts,” beginning February 20, 2026. The film has received two nominations for the prestigious Academy Awards – for Best International Feature Film and Best Sound. Produced by renowned brothers Almodóvar, “Sirāts” previously garnered critical acclaim at the Cannes Film Festival, where it won the Jury Prize.
A co-production between Spain and France, “Sirāts” tells the story of Luis (Sergi López) who, along with his son Esteban and loyal dog Pip, journeys to a music festival in the Moroccan desert in search of his missing daughter. Their travels lead them into a world of those fleeing life and oblivion, facing serious trials along the way. The film’s title, “Sirāts,” references the straight path in Islamic tradition – a bridge over hell, finer than a hair and sharper than a sword. The bridge stretches between Morocco and Mauritania, with the glowing sands of the Sahara Desert lying beneath.
Director’s Vision and Film Themes
Director Oliver Laxe, known for his previous films “Mimosa” and “The Free Will,” has created a film inspired by the work of Abbas Kiarostami’s “Taste of Cherry.” “Sirāts” explores human authenticity and how people react to profound shocks and existential crises. The film is described as a vibrant, vital cinematic saga saturated with rave spirit, combining visual imagery with techno music created by Kangding Ray. The result is simultaneously impactful, soothing, and otherworldly.
International Recognition and Latvian Distribution
“Sirāts” has earned significant international recognition, receiving nominations for several prestigious awards. In addition to the Oscar nominations, it received nine nominations for the European Film Awards, winning five. The film has likewise been nominated for a Golden Globe and a BAFTA Award. In Latvia, “Sirāts” will be distributed by A-One Films Latvia, and will be shown in cinemas including Splendid Palace, K Suns, and Kino Bize. The film is in Spanish and French with Latvian and English subtitles, and is rated 16+.
Special Screenings and Events
A demonstration of the film took place at the second Contemporary Film Festival “Bear, Lion and Branch” as one of the first events connected with the film’s arrival in Latvian cinemas. The cinemas will also offer “special screenings” related to the Oscar nominations, providing an additional opportunity for audiences to enjoy this award-winning work. Upcoming screenings are scheduled to begin February 20th in various cinemas throughout Latvia.
