Lithuanian Masterpiece ‘Toxic’ Clinches Prestigious Golden Peacock Award at IFFI 2024

Panaji, India — The Lithuanian film “Toxic” clinched the prestigious Golden Peacock Award at the 2024 International Film Festival of India (IFFI), standing out as the event’s best feature film. Helmed by acclaimed director Jonas Ribikauskas, the film wowed the jury and audience alike with its poignant exploration of environmental issues intertwined with personal drama. “Toxic” tells the compelling story of a small town grappling with severe pollution issues that impact the lives of its residents. The narrative skillfully delves into the emotional and physical upheavals faced by the townsfolk, making it a touching reflection … Read more

Lithuanian Film ‘Toxic’ Claims Top Prize at Locarno Film Festival 2024, Highlighting Emerging Global Cinema

Locarno, Switzerland – The 77th Locarno Film Festival culminated in a spectacular celebration of cinematic talent, with Lithuanian director Saulė Bliuvaitė’s feature debut “Akiplėša” (“Toxic”) clinching the prestigious Golden Leopard Award. The film, which delves into the unsettling realities of model agencies and teenage aspirations, stood out among its competitors at this international gathering. “Akiplėša” wasn’t the only Lithuanian film to gain critical acclaim at the festival. Laurynas Bareiša received the Best Director award for his work on “Seses” (“Drowning Dry”), a poignant narrative about two sisters grappling with a life-altering family loss. This film … Read more

Lithuanian Films Shine at Locarno Film Festival, Sweep Top Awards with Groundbreaking Entries

Locarno, Switzerland – The spotlight was firmly on Lithuanian cinema at this year’s Locarno Film Festival, with two standout films capturing several of the event’s top honors. The Baltic nation’s cinematic presence was strongly felt, as “Toxic,” the compelling debut from writer-director Saulė Bliuvaitė, scooped the prestigious Golden Leopard for Best Film in addition to dominating the First Feature Competition. Similarly, Laurynas Bareiša’s “Drowning Dry” earned him Best Director, while also taking a gender-neutral acting award for its ensemble cast. “Toxic” explores the dark interplay of friendship, exploitation, and rivalry among teenage girls at a … Read more