Nospiedumi: Latvian Film Premiere & Where to Watch

A deeply personal and darkly humorous exploration of generational trauma has arrived in Latvian cinemas. Alise Zariņa’s second feature film, “Nospiedumi” (translated as “Impressions” or “Footprints”), premiered on March 6th with screenings now underway across the country, from Riga to Liepāja, Ventspils, and beyond. The film, already garnering critical acclaim, is described by Zariņa herself as a “humorous story about the collective traumas and forgiveness of my generation.”

The premiere, held on March 5th, was attended by the award-winning creative team behind the project. “Nospiedumi” has already secured three National Film Awards – the “Lielais Kristaps” – recognizing Leonarda Ķestere as Best Supporting Actress, Gatis Maliks as Best Supporting Actor, and Armands Začs for Best Editing. This initial recognition underscores the film’s artistic merit and potential to resonate with audiences.

A Homecoming for Zariņa’s Vision

Zariņa’s directorial debut was “Blakus” (released in 2019), but “Nospiedumi” represents a significant step forward in her filmmaking. The film’s world premiere took place at the Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival in November of last year, where it was nominated in ten categories for the national film award “Lielais Kristaps.” The nominations spanned a wide range of categories, highlighting the film’s comprehensive artistic achievement. As Zariņa explains, the film delves into the complexities of intergenerational relationships and the enduring impact of past experiences, approaching these weighty themes with a lightness of touch and a healthy dose of humor. The National Film Centre of Latvia details the film’s extensive reach across the country’s cinema network.

The Story Unfolds: Trauma, Forgiveness, and a Complicated Father-Daughter Dynamic

“Nospiedumi” centers on Līva, portrayed by Ieva Segliņa, whose life is unexpectedly disrupted by the return of her estranged father – a struggling artist who found more success with alcohol than with his art. This reunion forces Līva to confront long-held insecurities, navigate romantic challenges, and grapple with a profound sense of emotional turmoil. The film also features performances from Gatis Maliks, Leonarda Ķestere, Eduards Johansons, Januss Johansons, Ērika Vilisone, Kate Oliņa, and Anta Aizupe, creating a rich ensemble cast. The narrative promises a nuanced exploration of family dynamics and the often-painful process of reconciliation.

Beyond Latvia: International Recognition and Critical Response

Even as the Latvian premiere marks a significant milestone, “Nospiedumi” has already garnered attention on the international stage. Following its debut in Tallinn, the film received positive reviews from critics in Paris and Boston, suggesting its themes resonate with audiences beyond the Baltic region. The film’s international title, “Flesh, Blood, Even a Heart,” hints at the raw emotional core of the story. LSM.lv reported on the release of the film’s trailer in February, signaling a growing anticipation for its wider release.

Zariņa’s Artistic Trajectory: From “Blakus” to “Asistente” and Beyond

Alise Zariņa’s career has been steadily gaining momentum in recent years. Following “Blakus” in 2019, she collaborated with Liene Lindi on the multi-part series “Asistente” in 2024. This diverse body of work demonstrates Zariņa’s versatility as a filmmaker and her commitment to exploring contemporary themes through a distinctly Latvian lens. Her focus on generational stories and collective trauma is a recurring motif, suggesting a deep personal connection to the narratives she chooses to tell. TV3.lv highlights the significance of the national premiere and the film’s awards success.

What’s Next for “Nospiedumi”?

Currently, “Nospiedumi” is enjoying its theatrical run across Latvia, with screenings scheduled in major cities and regional centers. The film’s success will likely influence its distribution strategy beyond Latvia, potentially leading to international film festival submissions and wider release opportunities. The positive critical reception and awards recognition provide a strong foundation for future endeavors, solidifying Alise Zariņa’s position as a rising star in Latvian cinema. The availability of showtimes can be found at linktr.ee/nospiedumi, offering audiences convenient access to experience this compelling new film.