Voices of the East: Spotlighting Eastern European Cinema

What happens when cinema becomes a lens for understanding the world around us? In Eastern Europe, filmmakers have long used their craft to reflect the complexities of life, history, and identity. With stories that range from intimate portraits of everyday struggles to bold explorations of socio-political tensions, these films offer a unique perspective on both personal and collective experience. Read more in Voices of the East: Spotlighting Eastern European Cinema.

This April, a fresh approach to cinema needs to be taken. Klassiki is highlighting some of the standout works from eastern Europe, showcasing the voices that continue to push the boundaries of storytelling. A new programme is being introduced, with a collection that has been carefully curated.

Klassiki offers a wide variety of options for browsing Eastern European cinema, from classic cinema to new and modern films and media, which have been hand-picked to give the best experience of this aspect of global cinema. Alongside festival favorites and hard-to-find titles fresh off the festival circuit, many of which don’t yet have distribution in the UK or US.

This month, Klassiki is bringing a rich mix of films, documentaries, and interviews that dig deep into the issues, culture, and stories that matter right now. It’s the perfect way to keep track of what’s fresh on the platform, and to dive deeper into some of the most exciting films of the year. Here are a few of the April highlights:

In a world where documentary filmmaking is often defined by its high polish and sleek editing, Masha Chernaya’s The Shards (2024) takes a different approach. This raw, DIY documentary immerses viewers in the turmoil and underground culture of a generation caught in the middle of Russia’s ongoing war with Ukraine.

Chernaya’s take on the conflict, combined with the gritty, immersive style of the film, offers an uncompromising view of a nation in crisis. This episode of The Shards follows Chernaya as they reflect on the process of making the film and its unflinching portrayal of personal and national tragedy.

Sybilla Tuxen’s Silent Sun of Russia (2023) offers an intimate portrait of modern-day Russia through the lens of its youth. Tuxen’s documentary takes a personal, close-up approach to understanding how Russia’s young generation is navigating life amidst geopolitical upheaval.

In an interview with Tuxen featured on their website, it dives into her filming process, her observations on how European audiences view Russia, and how young people in Russia are both resisting and adapting to the societal pressures they face.

Klassiki is once again collaborating with the GoEast film festival in Germany to bring the best of Eastern European cinema to our platform. Starting April 27th, there will be a showcase of several incredible titles from this year’s festival, allowing an experience of cutting-edge cinema from the region.

Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to Eastern European films, this is a great opportunity to discover some of the most exciting voices working in cinema today.

Kinoteka on Tour is also back this month, bringing a selection of exceptional Polish films to venues across the country. This year’s tour includes contemporary works that push the boundaries of Polish cinema, as well as two classic films from the iconic director Wojciech Has.

More information could be found on Klassiki’s website about the iconic film’s screening locations, showing off some of Poland’s finest cinematic offerings.

So whether you’re drawn to the raw emotional intensity of The Shards, intrigued by the intimate exploration of Russia’s youth in Silent Sun of Russia, or eager to experience some of the best Eastern European films coming out of GoEast and Kinoteka, April has plenty to offer.

If you enjoyed reading Voices of the East: Spotlighting Eastern European Cinema, why not read Sakura in Luxury: A Tribute to Tradition and Beauty

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