After graduating from the Lithuanian Academy of Music and Theatre with a degree in Cinematography (BA) in 2014, Martynas Norvaišas began his career as both a camera assistant and a DOP in the film and commercial industries. After finishing an MA in Photography and Media Art at Vilnius Academy of Fine Arts, he started an individual creative practice with a primary focus on the ever-changing concept of masculinity. His debut short documentary “I Buy” – which explores consumerism and existentialism – premiered at the Vilnius Film Festival in spring 2024.
Project developed in BSR2024:
“Suez”
hybrid, 13 min., Lithuania
A hybrid film in which different mediums, ranging from TV news and social networks to conventional film, clash as it follows one person’s yearn to break free from the status quo. The film explores personal stagnation and the desire to escape, told through the prism of world events.
Jazeps Podnieks graduated from the Latvian Academy of Culture’s National Film School in 2022 with a bachelor’s degree in film directing. He is passionate about delving into the intersections of documentary, fiction, and experimental cinema, while also embracing unconventional narrative structures. Themes of mysticism and the obscure often permeate his work. In 2022 his film “Tempest” was awarded the Latvian National Film Prize “Lielais Kristaps” as the best short fiction film of the year.
Project developed in BSR2024:
“Boy With The Whistle”
experimental fiction, 20 min., Latvia
The film tells the story of fourteen-year-old Janko, who runs away from home after an argument between his parents and embarks on a magical journey. Along the way, Janko faces his own fears and must overcome strange yet magical challenges.
Alesja Suzdaltseva, an Estonian director and storyteller, is known for her realistic tales set in fantasy worlds. She graduated from the Baltic Film, Media and Arts School as a film director. Her sci-fi short film “The Rise” has won 13 awards and screened at 22 festivals. She’s also directed 5 short films and two full-length documentary TV series in Arctic Norway beyond the Polar Circle. In 2023 Alesja represented Estonia at the Cannes Lions Young Lions Film Competition. Right now she is working as a director at Gorodenkoff Productions.
Project developed in BSR2024:
“Coronation” (co-scriptwriter Nora Aleksandra Tsahkna)
fiction, 15-20 min., Estonia, Norway
The story, set against the backdrop of Sami traditions, delves into a journey of coming of age, the strength of spirit, and the necessity of making difficult decisions when love confronts fear, and age-old traditions are tested by time.
