Synopsis

“Where is your soul?” This question was posed to prospective photography student Mattias during his admission interview for the Berlin Academy of Arts. His technical competencies were perfect, but his pictures were lacking in personal passion. Nevertheless Mattias was given a chance. Back in Estonia he finds a new subject and a new love in the thrilling Hanna. He falls passionately in love with the beautiful young woman. In order to please her, Mattias takes part in her spontaneous, and at times illegal, activities, without knowing that the root of Hanna’s impulsive behaviour is bipolar disorder. The situation ultimately spins out of control at a party and Mattias commits a crime which could lead to years in prison. With poignant images and a powerful soundtrack that significantly contributes to the film’s atmosphere, the Estonian director Anu Aun successfully captures the fast-paced lives of her protagonists. The painful process of growing up is told through a candid rollercoaster of emotions, through which Hanna and Mattias must first learn to take responsibility for their actions. In the process the film ingeniously blurs the boundaries between normality and illness, freedom and recklessness, as well as love and sacrifice.

Guests

ANU AUN

Anu Aun
Director The Polar Boy
In Vienna: March 20-23