Director of Vilnius Film Festival Algirdas Ramaška

The 30th Vilnius Film Festival is a truly special occasion. A milestone like this doesn’t come around often, and we’ve been preparing for this celebration for years.

I couldn’t be prouder of our team—whose ambitions have surpassed even my wildest dreams. This year’s program is truly exceptional, featuring not only the best new films of the year but also a selection of all-time greats. Many of these screenings will be accompanied by live music, special events, and conversations with some of the finest filmmakers in the world.

From March 7–9, we invite you to join us for grand opening events in a brand-new venue—the Lithuanian National Drama Theatre. After that, the festival spreads across Lithuania with an impressive 1,700 screenings, ensuring that everyone can find a time and place that suits them.

It may be our birthday, but the gifts are for you. So take a break from the daily grind and immerse yourself in experiences you’ll remember for a lifetime.

I can’t wait to see you all there!

Flow (dir. Gints Zilbalodis)

COMPETITION, ONE FILM OLDER
Flow opens our anniversary festival. A bold and unconventional choice—one that our entire team is incredibly proud of. This animated masterpiece from our Latvian neighbours has taken the world by storm, winning the Golden Globe and earning two Oscar nominations. Currently dominating box office charts worldwide, it’s a film that captures hearts of all ages. Everyone falls in love with the little black kitten so don’t worry if you don’t have kids or haven’t been drawn to animation before—this is a story for everyone. No wonder it holds an 8.0 rating on IMDb with over 27,000 votes.

Toxic (dir. Saulė Bliuvaitė)

COMPETITION, LITHUANIAN PREMIERES
A film by Saulė Bliuvaitė, one of Lithuania’s most talented emerging directors, finally arrives home after capturing the hearts of audiences and festival juries worldwide. Based on her own experiences, this deeply personal yet universally resonant story is impossible to ignore. A raw and gripping look into the world of teenage girls—their dreams, their struggles with body image, rebellion, inner turmoil, and the pursuit of ambition at any cost. A must-watch for teens aged 13-16, their parents, and teachers alike.

Armand (dir. Halfdan Ullmann Tøndel)

COMPETITION
A Scandinavian gem and, in my opinion, a strong contender for the best film of the festival. A gripping exploration of adulthood, our complex attitudes toward children, and the truths that get lost between ego, resentment, and manipulation. This stunning debut earned its director the prestigious Caméra d’Or at Cannes, while lead actress Renate Reinsve, known for The Worst Person in the World, once again delivers a powerhouse performance. If you were moved by films like The Son, Anatomy of a Fall, We Need to Talk About Kevin, or The Son’s Room, Armand is an absolute must-watch.

The Marching Band (dir. Emmanuel Courcol)

PANORAMA
French comedies always rank among the festival audience’s favorites, and I’m thrilled that this year is no exception. Lighthearted and uplifting yet full of meaning, this film comes from the well-known director Emmanuel Courcol, whose previous work The Big Hit became a festival bestseller. I have no doubt that this one will win your hearts just as easily. Just watch the trailer, and I’ll see you at the cinema.

A New Kind of Wilderness (dir. Silje Evensmo Jacobsen)

WHERE THE TREES GROW
In this chaotic world, more and more people are turning to nature, seeking to rediscover or rebuild the lost connection. If you’re on that journey too, this film is for you. It tells the true story of a Norwegian family who chose to live in nature—raising their children away from societal norms, growing their own food, and homeschooling through hands-on experiences in the wild. It sounds like an idyllic dream, but is it truly possible? What are the consequences? And what if…? I promise this film will leave you with plenty to reflect on and endless topics for discussion.

Vermiglio (dir. Maura Delperco)

CRITICS’ CHOICE
My colleague Benita described it perfectly: it feels like reading a novel—a truly great one. The director carefully documented and recreated her grandmother’s memories, telling a story that unfolds at the end of World War II. Every detail is thoughtfully considered, real, and deeply authentic, while the breathtaking landscapes of the Italian Alps come to life on the big screen. Remember the stunning film The Eight Mountains? If so, you know exactly what to expect…

The Quiet Ones (dir. Frederik Louis Haviid)

PANORAMA
In 2008, Denmark witnessed the biggest bank heist in its history. This film, based on true events and firsthand accounts from the masterminds themselves, tells the story of a brilliantly planned and executed crime. It’s so gripping that you might forget to breathe. Action films are a rare sight at Kino Pavasaris, so if you need a break from intense dramas or aren’t a fan of slow cinema, this one is for you.

Kneecap (dir. Rich Peppiatt)

MAKE SOME NOISE!
A perfect film for a Friday or Saturday night. Belfast, rebellion, balaclavas, resistance, music, hip-hop, alcohol, drugs—an explosion of energy where chaos and harmony blend seamlessly. The raw charm of the Irish language adds to its authenticity, and the vibe is reminiscent of the cult classic Trainspotting—the kind of film you’ll want to watch again and again. On the big screen, it’s going to be an absolute blast.

Wishing on A Star (dir. Peter Kerekes)

CRITICS’ CHOICE
In Italy, there lives a fortune teller with her own unique system based on numerology and celestial bodies—one that could change your life or help you achieve what you’ve always dreamed of. This is a true documentary, and I still can’t wrap my head around how the filmmakers managed to convince her to allow not just herself but also her clients and their personal stories to be filmed. After watching it, the entire team wanted a reading with her, so we’re doing everything we can to bring her here. Once you see the film, I’m sure you’ll be among those eager to meet her too…

Kill the Jockey (dir. Luis Ortega)

PANORAMA
At the festival some time ago, we had the chance to show a remarkable film by this director titled Angel. Naturally, I expected something similar from his new work. But what I saw completely blew me away. Not only did I not anticipate such a raw and mad film, but I can’t even remember the last time I saw something like it. So, if you’re looking for something that will truly surprise you, this film is exactly what you need. After all, festivals are all about discovering something new.