Short competition: notes from afterlife

Always drawing some of the largest crowds to the cinemas, the Critics’ Choice programme is back this year with the favourites of film critics writing for a variety of prestigious publications. This breathtaking selection includes films that tell extraordinary stories using unique forms and genres. Both renowned and emerging filmmakers find their place here.

The programme presents a diverse selection of contemporary films from around the world—both festival favourites and unexpected discoveries. These include works beloved by discerning critics, as well as those that the major festivals overlooked, yet the audiences still fell for. Following these screenings, we will discuss sex and politics, the pursuit of happiness, and the search for identity.

In 2025, we celebrate a special anniversary – the 150th birthday of Mikalojus Konstantinas Čiurlionis, the most prominent Lithuanian artist of all time. To mark this occasion, we present the premiere of restored films dedicated to Čiurlionis by three giants of Lithuanian cinema: Robertas Verba, Arūnas Žebriūnas, and Algirdas Dausa.