Lithuanian cinema has a long and rich history, dating back to the early 20th century. Despite periods of political upheaval and censorship, Lithuanian filmmakers have continued to produce compelling and thought-provoking works that reflect the country’s cultural heritage and social issues.
Some of the best Lithuanian movies have explored a wide range of themes, including history, politics, family dynamics, and personal identity.
These films showcase the country’s artistic talent and cultural diversity, and provide a unique window into the lives and experiences of the Lithuanian people.
Some of the most notable Lithuanian filmmakers include Jonas Mekas, Šarūnas Bartas, and Alantė Kavaitė, who have all made significant contributions to Lithuanian cinema.
Best Lithuanian Movies
Whether you are a film enthusiast or simply curious about Lithuanian culture, these films are definitely worth watching.
1. Vaikai is Amerikos viesbucio (1990)
“Vaikai iš Amerikos viešbučio” is a Lithuanian comedy film that was released in 1990. The film was directed by Raimondas Banionis and is based on the screenplay by Saulius Šaltenis.
The story revolves around a group of Lithuanian children who are staying at an American hotel, where they have to navigate cultural differences and language barriers.
The film explores themes of friendship, teamwork, and perseverance. “Vaikai iš Amerikos viešbučio” is considered a classic of Lithuanian cinema and has been popular with audiences both in Lithuania and abroad.
2. Adam Wants to Be a Man (1959)
“Adam Wants to Be a Man” is an Egyptian drama film directed by Ahmed Badrakhan, released in 1959.
The film tells the story of a young boy named Adam who lives in a small village in Egypt. Adam was raised as a girl by his mother and grandmother, who believed that this would protect him from the curse that had afflicted their family for generations.
When Adam reaches puberty, he begins to question his identity and struggles to reconcile his male identity with the female role he was raised to play.
The film explores themes of gender identity, tradition, and social pressure in rural Egypt. It was highly controversial when it was released due to its sensitive subject matter and challenging portrayal of gender roles in Egyptian society.
Despite this, the film was a critical and commercial success, and it is now regarded as a landmark in Egyptian cinema. “Adam Wants to Be a Man” won several awards at international film festivals, including the Golden Tanit at the Carthage Film Festival.
3. Nobody Wanted to Die (1965)
Nobody Wanted to Die is a 1965 Soviet war drama film directed by Sergei Bondarchuk. The film is set during World War II and depicts the Battle of Stalingrad, one of the bloodiest battles in the history of warfare.
The film follows a group of Soviet soldiers as they defend their city against the invading German army. The soldiers are from different backgrounds and have different motivations for fighting, but they are all united by their love for their country and their determination to defend it.
The film explores the horrors of war, including the physical and emotional toll on the soldiers and the civilian population. It also examines the psychological impact of war, including the effects on the soldiers’ families and loved ones.
The title of the film, Nobody Wanted to Die, refers to the fact that nobody who goes to war wants to die, but they are willing to make the ultimate sacrifice for their country and their beliefs.
The film was a critical and commercial success and won several awards, including the Golden Prize at the 4th Moscow International Film Festival.
It is considered one of the best war films ever made and is a testament to the courage and sacrifice of the soldiers who fought in the Battle of Stalingrad.
4. Feelings (1968)
“Feelings” is a French romantic drama film directed by Louis Malle. The film follows the story of a young couple, played by Jeanne Moreau and Dominique Sanda, who are both involved in a love triangle with the same man, played by Michel Piccoli.
The film explores themes of love, jealousy, and desire as the characters navigate their complex relationships with one another. Moreau plays Anna, a successful television presenter who falls in love with a fellow journalist named David, played by Piccoli.
However, David is also involved with Sanda’s character, a young actress named Regine, leading to tension and emotional turmoil.
As the characters struggle to come to terms with their feelings, the film also touches on broader societal issues, including the political climate in France during the late 1960s.
The film is known for its iconic soundtrack, which features the song “Feelings” by Morris Albert.
“Feelings” received mixed reviews upon its release but has since gained a cult following among fans of French cinema. The film is notable for its strong performances, particularly from Moreau, who was one of the most prominent actresses of her generation.
5. Devil’s Bride (1974)
“Devil’s Bride” (Finnish title: “Noituri”) is a 1974 Finnish horror film directed by Pekka Parikka. The film is based on the novel “The Witch” by Finnish author Mika Waltari and is set in 17th-century rural Finland.
The story follows a young woman named Anna who falls in love with a local farmer named Mikko, who is secretly a member of a satanic cult.
The film was notable for its atmospheric visuals and its depiction of Finnish folklore and witchcraft. It was also controversial upon its release due to its graphic violence and nudity.
Despite this, the film was a critical and commercial success in Finland and has since become a cult classic.
“Devil’s Bride” was nominated for the Palme d’Or at the 1974 Cannes Film Festival and was Finland’s submission for the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film in 1974.
The film was released internationally under various titles, including “The Witch” and “The Devil’s Wedding Night”.
6. A Small Confession (1971)
“A Small Confession” is a 1971 Lithuanian drama film directed by Algimantas Puipa. The film tells the story of a young man named Vincas (Donatas Banionis), who returns to his hometown after a long absence.
While there, he confronts the traumatic events of his past and must come to terms with the guilt he feels over his involvement in a tragic accident.
The film is a poignant and powerful exploration of guilt, redemption, and personal responsibility. It examines the psychological toll of past events on the human psyche, and the difficult process of facing one’s mistakes and seeking forgiveness.
“A Small Confession” is widely regarded as one of the most significant Lithuanian films of the 20th century. It won several awards at the Moscow International Film Festival, including the FIPRESCI prize for best film.
The film’s nuanced and sensitive treatment of its themes makes it a timeless and thought-provoking work of art.
7. Skrydis per Atlanta (1983)
“Skrydis per Atlantą” is a Lithuanian drama film that was released in 1983. The film was directed by Romas Lileikis and is based on the novel “Skrydis per Atlantą” by Juozas Grušas.
The story follows a Lithuanian immigrant named Marius who has settled in the United States but still longs for his homeland.
When his father becomes seriously ill, Marius travels back to Lithuania to be with him, but he finds that things have changed since he left. The film explores themes of identity, family, and the immigrant experience.
“Skrydis per Atlantą” is considered a classic of Lithuanian cinema and has won numerous awards, including the Lithuanian National Prize for Culture and Art.
8. Northern Crusades (1972)
“Northern Crusades” is a Soviet historical drama film directed by Sergei Eisenstein and released in 1972.
The film tells the story of the Northern Crusades, a series of military campaigns launched by the Catholic Church and European monarchs in the 12th and 13th centuries to conquer and convert pagan tribes in the Baltic region.
The film is a visual masterpiece, featuring Eisenstein’s trademark use of montage and dramatic juxtaposition to create a powerful emotional impact.
It explores themes of imperialism, religion, and cultural conflict in medieval Europe. “Northern Crusades” was not without controversy, as it was criticized for its portrayal of the Catholic Church and its use of historical inaccuracies for dramatic effect.
Despite this, the film was a critical and commercial success, and it is now regarded as one of Eisenstein’s greatest works. The film won several awards, including the Grand Prix at the Moscow International Film Festival.
9. Saduto tuto (1974)
Saduto Tuto is a 1974 Indian drama film directed by K. Balachander. The film tells the story of a young woman named Chandra, who is forced to marry against her will and struggles to find her place in her new family and society.
Chandra is a spirited and independent woman who dreams of a career in music. However, her traditional family has other plans for her and arranges for her to marry a man she does not love.
Chandra tries to make the best of her situation, but finds herself trapped in a loveless marriage with a controlling and abusive husband.
As Chandra tries to navigate her way through her new life, she meets a kind and compassionate man who encourages her to pursue her passion for music. With his help, Chandra begins to find the strength to stand up for herself and fight for her dreams.
The film explores themes of gender roles, marriage, and the power dynamics within families and society. It also features powerful performances by the lead actress, Sujatha, and the supporting cast.
Saduto Tuto was a critical and commercial success and is considered one of the best films of K. Balachander’s career. The film’s themes and messages are still relevant today, making it a timeless classic of Indian cinema.
10. The Beauty (1969)
“The Beauty” (Gražuolė) is a 1969 Lithuanian drama film directed by Arūnas Žebriūnas. The film tells the story of a young girl named Jolanta (Rasa Tamulionytė), who dreams of becoming a model and escaping her small town life.
Jolanta’s beauty catches the attention of a photographer, who encourages her to pursue her dreams and move to the big city.
The film explores themes of beauty, youth, and ambition, as well as the challenges and sacrifices that come with pursuing one’s dreams. Jolanta’s journey is a poignant and relatable portrayal of the struggles and joys of adolescence and early adulthood.
“The Beauty” is considered a classic of Lithuanian cinema and is one of the most acclaimed Lithuanian films of all time.
It won several awards at international film festivals, including the Golden Shell at the San Sebastian International Film Festival.
The film’s striking black-and-white cinematography and powerful performances make it a timeless work of art.
11. Kolekcioniere (2008)
“Kolekcionierė” is a Lithuanian drama film that was released in 2008. The film was directed by Kristina Buožytė and is based on the screenplay by Eglė Vertelytė.
The story follows a young woman named Ada who works as a taxidermist and is also a collector of rare and unusual specimens.
When Ada meets a man named Saulius, she becomes obsessed with him and begins to collect pieces of his life, including his hair and other personal items. As Ada’s obsession with Saulius grows, she becomes increasingly isolated and disconnected from the outside world.
The film explores themes of love, obsession, and identity, and has been praised for its strong performances and visual style. “Kolekcionierė” has won numerous awards, including the Best Director award at the Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival.
12. Low Lights (2009)
“Low Lights” is a 2009 American independent drama film directed by Ignacio Rinza. The film tells the story of two estranged sisters, Amber and Jade, who reunite after their mother dies.
The sisters must confront the unresolved issues from their past and learn to reconnect with each other.
“Low Lights” explores themes of family, loss, and redemption. The film received positive reviews for its raw and honest portrayal of sisterhood and the struggles of dealing with grief and emotional trauma.
Despite its limited release, “Low Lights” was well-received on the festival circuit and won several awards, including Best Feature at the Hollywood Reel Independent Film Festival.
13. Eastern Drift (2010)
Eastern Drift is a 2010 crime drama film directed by Sharunas Bartas. The film is set in Lithuania and follows the story of a Frenchman named Gena who gets caught up in the criminal underworld of the city.
Gena arrives in Lithuania to meet his girlfriend, but finds that she has disappeared.
He is soon drawn into the world of organized crime and becomes involved with a group of criminals who are planning a major heist. As Gena becomes more deeply involved in their activities, he begins to question his own morals and motivations.
The film explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the human cost of criminal activity. It also features stunning cinematography that captures the bleak beauty of the Lithuanian landscape.
Eastern Drift was well-received by critics and won several awards, including the FIPRESCI Prize at the Cannes Film Festival. The film is considered a powerful and haunting exploration of the criminal underworld and the impact it has on those who are drawn into its orbit.
14. Back to Your Arms (2010)
“Back to Your Arms” is a French drama film directed by Laurent Nègre. The film tells the story of Elsa (played by Mélanie Thierry), a young woman who has just been released from prison after serving a sentence for killing her abusive husband.
Upon her release, Elsa is reunited with her young son and tries to rebuild her life, but struggles to overcome the trauma of her past.
As Elsa attempts to start over, she meets Pierre (played by Grégoire Leprince-Ringuet), a gentle and caring man who helps her find work and reconnect with her son.
However, Elsa’s past continues to haunt her, and she struggles to open up to Pierre about the events that led to her imprisonment.
The film explores themes of domestic violence, trauma, and the healing power of love and forgiveness. It also features a strong performance from Thierry, who won critical acclaim for her portrayal of Elsa.
“Back to Your Arms” premiered at the Cannes Film Festival in 2010 and received positive reviews from critics. The film was praised for its sensitive portrayal of domestic violence and its nuanced exploration of the complex emotions experienced by survivors of abuse.
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15. Mieganciu drugeliu tvirtove (2012)
“Mieganciu drugeliu tvirtove” is a 2012 Lithuanian drama film directed by Audrius Juzėnas, based on the novel of the same name by Juozas Grušas.
The film is set in the early 20th century and follows the story of a young man named Aidas who returns to his hometown in Lithuania after studying in Russia. Aidas becomes involved with a group of rebels who are fighting against the Russian Empire’s occupation of Lithuania.
The film was notable for its historical accuracy and its depiction of the Lithuanian resistance movement against Russian rule. It was also praised for its strong performances, particularly from lead actor Mantas Janciauskas.
“Mieganciu drugeliu tvirtove” was Lithuania’s submission for the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film in 2012, but it was not nominated.
The film was a critical and commercial success in Lithuania and has since become a beloved cultural touchstone in the country.
16. Vanishing Waves (II) (2012)
“Vanishing Waves” is a 2012 Lithuanian science-fiction film directed by Kristina Buozyte. The film tells the story of Lukas (Marius Jampolskis), a young neuroscientist who volunteers for an experimental project involving a sensory deprivation tank.
Lukas is paired with Aurora (Jurga Jutaite), a woman in a coma, and begins to experience a strange and intense connection with her in a virtual reality world created by their shared consciousness.
The film explores themes of love, desire, and the boundaries between reality and imagination. The visually stunning and surreal imagery creates a haunting and dreamlike atmosphere, while the complex characters and intricate plot keep the audience engaged.
“Vanishing Waves” has been praised for its innovative approach to science-fiction and its bold exploration of human relationships and consciousness.
It has won several awards at international film festivals and has been widely regarded as one of the best Lithuanian films of the past decade. If you are a fan of science-fiction or experimental cinema, “Vanishing Waves” is definitely worth watching.
17. The Gambler (2013)
“The Gambler” is a crime thriller film that was released in 2014. The film was directed by Rupert Wyatt and is a remake of the 1974 film of the same name.
The story follows a literature professor named Jim Bennett (played by Mark Wahlberg) who has a secret life as a high-stakes gambler.
When he borrows money from a gangster named Neville (played by Michael Kenneth Williams), Jim finds himself in over his head and must use all of his gambling skills to stay alive.
Along the way, Jim also becomes romantically involved with one of his students (played by Brie Larson). The film explores themes of addiction, risk-taking, and redemption. “The Gambler” received mixed reviews from critics, but was praised for Wahlberg’s performance and the film’s stylish direction.
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18. The Summer of Sangaile (2015)
“The Summer of Sangaile” is a Lithuanian drama film directed by Alanté Kavaïté, released in 2015. The film tells the story of Sangaile, a 17-year-old girl who is fascinated by stunt flying and dreams of becoming a pilot.
During the summer, she meets Auste, a free-spirited girl who introduces her to new experiences and helps her confront her fears and insecurities.
The film explores themes of self-discovery, sexuality, and coming of age. It received critical acclaim for its visually stunning cinematography and sensitive portrayal of teenage emotions and relationships.
“The Summer of Sangaile” won several awards, including the World Cinema Directing Award at the Sundance Film Festival and the Best Film Award at the Vilnius International Film Festival.
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19. Peace to Us in Our Dreams (2015)
Peace to Us in Our Dreams is a 2015 Lithuanian drama film directed by Sharunas Bartas. The film tells the story of a man named Nemunas and his daughter, along with their dog, who decide to spend a peaceful weekend in their summer house by the lake.
As they spend time together, Nemunas and his daughter begin to reconnect and rediscover their relationship. However, their idyllic weekend is interrupted by the arrival of a young woman named Vija, who is seeking refuge from her abusive husband.
The film explores themes of family, love, and the struggle for inner peace. It also features stunning cinematography that captures the beauty of the Lithuanian countryside and its lakes.
Peace to Us in Our Dreams was well-received by critics and was selected to compete for the Palme d’Or at the 2015 Cannes Film Festival.
The film is considered a powerful and contemplative exploration of the human experience and the search for personal fulfillment and contentment.
20. The Saint (2016)
“The Saint” is a British spy thriller television series created by Jesse Alexander and Tony Giglio. It is a reboot of the 1960s television series of the same name, which was based on the books by Leslie Charteris.
The new series follows the adventures of a modern-day Simon Templar, also known as “The Saint,” played by Adam Rayner. Templar is a charming and sophisticated thief who uses his skills to take down criminals and corrupt officials, often with the help of his team of associates.
Over the course of the series, Templar becomes embroiled in a variety of complex and dangerous missions, taking him all over the world in pursuit of justice.
Along the way, he also grapples with his own personal demons and struggles to balance his life as a thief with his desire to do good.
“The Saint” premiered in 2017 but was cancelled after only one season due to low ratings. While the series received mixed reviews from critics, it was praised for its stylish action sequences and for Rayner’s performance as the charismatic and enigmatic Simon Templar.
3 Characteristics of Lithuanian Movies
Lithuania has a long history of cinema, dating back to the early 20th century. Here are three characteristics that are often associated with Lithuanian movies:
Historical themes: Many Lithuanian films explore the country’s history, including its periods of occupation and resistance against foreign rule. These films often reflect the country’s struggles for independence and highlight the resilience of the Lithuanian people.
Naturalistic style: Lithuanian cinema is known for its naturalistic and understated style, which often emphasizes the beauty of the country’s landscapes and its people.
The focus on realism and authenticity is evident in many Lithuanian films, which often feature long takes and a focus on character development.
Symbolism: Lithuanian cinema also frequently employs symbolism and metaphor to explore themes related to identity, memory, and cultural heritage. Many films use traditional Lithuanian folklore and mythology as a source of inspiration, and they often incorporate elements of magic realism and surrealism into their storytelling.
3 Reasons To Watch Lithuanian Movies
Cultural Exploration: Lithuanian movies provide a unique opportunity to explore the culture, history, and social issues of Lithuania.
They offer a window into the country’s rich and diverse heritage, as well as its complex political and social landscape. Watching Lithuanian movies can help you gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the country’s people, traditions, and way of life.
Artistic Excellence: Lithuanian cinema is known for its artistic and creative talent. Many Lithuanian filmmakers have gained international recognition for their innovative and thought-provoking works.
Watching Lithuanian movies can expose you to a different style of filmmaking and storytelling, and introduce you to some of the most talented filmmakers in the region.
Diverse Themes and Genres: Lithuanian movies cover a wide range of themes and genres, from historical dramas to contemporary comedies.
They tackle sensitive and challenging issues, such as war, politics, and personal identity, offering unique and insightful perspectives on these topics. Whether you are interested in art films, genre cinema, or documentary, Lithuanian cinema has something to offer for everyone.
Best Lithuanian Movies – Wrap Up
Lithuania has a rich film history and has produced several critically acclaimed movies over the years. Here are some of the best Lithuanian movies of all time:
The Beauty (1969) directed by Arūnas Žebriūnas
White Shroud (1963) directed by Algirdas Dausa
The Devil’s Bride (1974) directed by Arūnas Žebriūnas
Anarchy in Zirmunai (1980) directed by Raimundas Banionis
Flight Over Lithuania (2004) directed by Audrius Stonys
Redirected (2014) directed by Emilis Vėlyvis
The Collectress (2008) directed by Kristina Buožytė
The Summer of Sangaile (2015) directed by Alantė Kavaitė
The Excursionist (2013) directed by Audrius Juzėnas
Frost (2017) directed by Šarūnas Bartas
These movies represent different genres, from drama to comedy and even crime thriller, but they have one thing in common – they offer a glimpse into Lithuanian culture and identity.
They have also been recognized at international film festivals and won various awards, cementing their place as some of the best Lithuanian movies of all time.
