We’re kicking off the 15th edition of the festival with a little surprise: a short film programme called “The Five Ways of Celebration”!

Think chaotic New Year mornings, Easter reunions, limousine rides, and those unpredictable moments that make life funny, tender, or just plain strange. Each short offers a snapshot of how Lithuanians mark life’s milestones — from joy to loss, tradition to the absurd. A mix of laughs, surprises, and tiny revelations, all wrapped into one unforgettable opening night.

EGZISTENCIJA / EXISTENCE - Comedy, D: Giedrė Beinoriūtė, 2024, 23′, LT: An exploration of the unpredictability of human existence. While two eccentric elderly ladies contemplate death and a fresh young couple dreams of eternal love, life — as always — takes an unexpected turn.

LAIMINGŲ KITŲ! / HAPPY NEW YEAR! - Drama / Queer, D: Lukas Kacinauskas, 2023, 18′, LT: On New Year’s morning, Šarunas wakes up next to the cute guy Martin, while his girlfriend Iveta is in the shower. Šarunas can’t help but wonder if things will ever be the same again. Meantime, Martin wishes him a Happy Next Year.

LIMOUSINE/LIMUZINAS - Documentary, D: Saulė Bliuvaitė, 15′, LT, 2021: While driving around in limousines, groups of people from different generations and backgrounds struggle to find the best way to have the fun they desire.

THE NOMINEES / NOMINANTAI - Drama / Comedy, D: Birutė Kapustinskaitė, 2023, 15′, LT: Having lost out on the award for the best actress of the year, Aldona becomes the hero of the day.

THE FIRST SUNDAY AFTER THE FIRST FULL MOON / PIRMAS SEKMADIENIS PO PILNATIES - Comedy / Family Drama, D: Greta Griniūtė, 15′, LT / UK, 2021: When London-based DJ Eglė returns home to Lithuania for an Easter celebration, she finds herself facing more than just the music.