The National Competition is a delve into the life of the small country we all call home, uncovering the truths that – for those of us who live here – we all relate to and perhaps offering some true surprises for those living outside of our fair shores. For, whilst many of the stories are rooted in the tradition and folklore of Estonia, there is also universality to the stories that reflect not only the diverse nature of filmmakers in the country but how cinema can unite people from all over the world. Amongst familiar names there are plenty of new talents and plethora of ideas and invention.
The Estonian animation films of the programme are quintessentially, happily subversive (as always), but also very timely. Invasion, war, and its consequences are explored with empathy and poignant humor. We also have helpful robots, humans, and other characters navigating different facets of reality - messy, surreal, and very familiar.