The Estonian-Ukrainian Nordic-noir psychological thriller My Dear Mother has been selected for the Berlinale Series Market Selects program at the 75th Berlin International Film Festival, marking a significant milestone as the first Estonian TV series to receive such high-level international recognition.

Part of the Berlinale’s curated showcase of 12-14 series with strong global market potential, the six-part drama delves into the life of Alina, a young woman whose troubled past resurfaces after her mother is found brutally murdered. As the story unfolds, viewers are left questioning whether Alina is a manipulative killer or a victim of lifelong abuse.

Edith Sepp, head of the Estonian Film Institute, hailed the selection as a breakthrough for the nation’s television industry: “This achievement highlights the uniqueness of our stories and their resonance with international audiences.”

Produced by Elisa Estonia in collaboration with Zolba Productions and FILM.UA, My Dear Mother represents Elisa's first international co-production. Toomas Ili, Elisa’s content director, emphasized the contribution of Ukraine's FILM.UA in the post-production process, ensuring a polished visual narrative. “Seeing an Estonian series stand alongside global leaders at Berlinale is an incredible honor for our team,” Ili said.

Directed by Doris Tääker and written by Raoul Suvi, the series stars Doris Tislar, Elina Reinold, and Saara Pius. The producer is Jevgeni Supin, with script development by Tiina Lokk, Raoul Suvi, and Toomas Ili. FILM.UA Distribution is handling the series' international distribution. By the way, the director of the Black Nights Film Festival, Tiina Lokk, started her work in the film industry as a script editor. Her filmography includes about 30 films, several of which are part of the Estonian film gold fund.

My Dear Mother will have its Estonian premiere in November at the Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival before debuting on Elisa Huub.