The 29th edition of the Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival (PÖFF) kicks off in Estonia on November 17, 2025, showcasing a diverse collection of new arthouse films and festival highlights from the past year. Festival director Tiina Lokk and her team have curated an array of world premieres and regional gems, including several unconventional and thought-provoking titles.
Among the featured films is Electing Ms Santa, a documentary from Moldova that follows the journey of Elena, a 42-year-old woman with political aspirations. The film, directed by Raisa Răzmeriță, documents her community initiatives, including organizing clean-ups and supporting the elderly, all while donning a Santa Claus costume to spread joy. Filmed over seven years, the documentary captures her struggle against societal expectations as she pursues her dream of becoming mayor.
Unique Perspectives from Europe and Beyond
Another standout is The Baronesses, co-directed by Nabil Ben Yadir and his mother, Mokhtaria Badaoui. This film tells the story of four grandmothers in Brussels who decide to produce a theatrical rendition of Shakespeare’s Hamlet. The narrative follows Fatima, a resident of Molenbeek, who turns to her long-held dream of acting after facing setbacks in her personal life. The film promises a blend of empowerment and magic realism, with a touch of humor.
The festival also features Scarecrows, a docu-fiction by Latvian filmmaker Laila Pakalniņa, which explores the often-overlooked relationship between humans and wildlife at Riga International Airport. The film presents the efforts of the ‘runway rangers’ who manage wildlife conflicts while ensuring safe airport operations. This comedic yet poignant story highlights the absurdities of nature amidst human activity.
The theme of voyeurism is explored in the debut feature Interior by German director Pascal Schuh. The film follows a burglar who uses a couch with a hidden compartment to film the private lives of unsuspecting residents. The narrative raises questions about morality and the boundaries of human experience, making it a thought-provoking viewing.
Exploring Family Dynamics and Cultural Clashes
“My Family and Other Clowns” is an observational documentary that delves into the lives of world-famous Estonian clowns. It reveals the complexities of family life behind the curtain, focusing on their children who often grow up without their parents due to their demanding careers. The film captures the emotional toll of balancing performance and family responsibilities.
In a different vein, 18 Holes to Paradise, directed by João Nuno Pinto, explores familial and environmental tensions in a Portuguese family as they debate the future of their father’s house amidst a wildfire crisis. It presents a compelling narrative about the impact of change, both environmental and social.
Kyrgyz filmmaker Amanbek Azhymat introduces Backstage Madness, a slapstick comedy that depicts the absurdities of filmmaking through the lens of a senior director. This humorous take on the struggles of the creative process promises to engage audiences with its unique storytelling.
Lastly, K-Poper, directed by Iranian writer Ebrahim Amin, addresses the cultural clash experienced by a teenage girl in Iran who dreams of attending a K-pop concert in Seoul. The narrative highlights the tension between her aspirations and her conservative upbringing, offering insights into contemporary Iranian society.
The Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival aims to provide a platform for these unique voices and stories, emphasizing the importance of art in exploring complex social issues. With its eclectic lineup, the festival invites audiences to engage with films that challenge norms and provoke thought.
