The weekend’s film programme offers something for everyone. Late-morning cinematic treats are dedicated to children and young spectators, with the Just Film programme taking over the screens.
In Atlas of the Universe, audiences can join Filip and his father on an surreal journey that begins with an innocent trip to buy shoes. When the box is opened to reveal two right shoes, the search for the missing left shoe turns into an quirky adventure through summer landscapes, featuring a cast of charismatic characters along the way.
One of the day’s highlights is the international premiere of the fiction film Joy Will Prevail. The film tells the story of Louis Kahn, the influential 20th-century architect born in Kuressaare, Estonia. His monumental style, skilful use of light and shadow, and innovative use of concrete stood out at a time when architectural trends favoured lighter materials and glass. The film focuses on the period during which he designed his final building. The story is a personal one for the director: the building was commissioned by his grandfather.
At 14:30, audiences will have the opportunity to meet actor Griffin Dunne at an open press conference at Apollo Kino Plaza. He will be joined by Gregory Kahn, the architect’s grandson, who will share stories about his grandfather. The guests will also attend the evening screening of the film (20:15, Apollo Kino Plaza), followed by a Q&A with director Max Korman, producer J. Andrew Greenblatt and actors Ben Rosenfield and Griffin Dunne.
The Icelandic film Tears of Stone will be screened on Saturday. The film was a favourite with PÖFF audiences in 1997 and went on to become Iceland’s Oscar submission. Set in Nazi Germany, it tells the story of composer Jón Leifs, who must choose between his music and his Jewish wife. Director Hilmar Oddsson, this year’s PÖFF Lifetime Achievement Award laureate, will be present at the screening.
Oddsson is a renowned filmmaker whose work has helped put Icelandic cinema on the world map. Several of his films have also been screened in Estonia. Audiences may particularly remember Driving Mum, a bittersweet, tragicomic tale of a journey that won the Official Selection - Competition at PÖFF in 2022.
Saturday evening features a special treat for book lovers. Based on Valérie Perrin’s bestselling novel Fresh Water for Flowers, the film Violette is directed by none other than Jean-Pierre Jeunet, the acclaimed filmmaker behind the much-loved and mischievous Amélie. This time, the story follows Violette, an equally quirky yet charming cemetery caretaker whose faded dreams have not stopped life from having a few additional surprises in store for her.
PÖFF will be bustling with guests on Saturday:
Not sure what to watch? Let PÖFF’s very own Film Recommender AI, Susi, point you in the right direction!