The first feature film in the Nenets language, made in 1999, summarises the life of the Nenets people in the 20th century in seven episodes. The introduction of Soviet rule in the tundra, the collectivisation, the clash of old and new customs, all lead to tragic consequences, which are at times also comic or, to be more precise, tragicomic.

The actors are ordinary Nenets, and one of the authors, Anastasia Lapsui, is also of that nationality. Her memories and Nenets folklore are the basis of this personal work which combines fiction, documentary and ethnographic film aesthetics.

Markku Lehmuskallio celebrated his 85th birthday on 31 December and Anastasia Lapsui celebrated her 80th birthday on 1 January. Together, they have been filming indigenous peoples for 30 years. “Seven Songs from the Tundra” is their best-known film, also nominated for an Oscar, and restored in 2023.

Tiit Tuumalu