It is highly probable that before their own death, everyone has to organise someone else’s funeral. This is by far not an easy task. In addition to the searing grief, dying also brings a number of tasks that are at once utterly alien and intensely time-critical. The main character of this film, Dovile, who unexpectedly has to bury her father, has to face the bedlam of exactly such a challenge. Overnight, the young girl has to become a skilful organiser of a family event, while also being a specialist on coffins, urns, wreaths and funeral feasts. Dovile’s journey towards organising a perfect funeral is inevitably full of hardship and mishaps, accompanied mainly by black humour and comical situations.

Director and screenwriter Dovile Šarutyte portrays a truly multi-faceted state of mind, which is utterly intimate, while conveying a striking portrait of the society. Scenes from a childhood video archive as well as satirical stabs at stereotypes boost the emotions. Often you can’t even readily discern whether your eyes grow moist from overwhelming laughter or wistful sorrow. It is clear, however, that Šarutyte, who has previously earned various awards with short films, gives a remarkable performance also with her first full-length feature film, offering the audience a viewing experience that does not balk from taboo subjects or hidden feelings.

“Feature Film About Life” participated in Industry@Tallinn & Baltic Event Works in Progress presentation in 2020.

Elise Eimre