Riga, Latvia – Alise Zariņa’s second feature film, “Nospiedumi” (translated as “Impressions” or “Flesh, Blood, Even a Heart”), premiered to a receptive audience at the Splendid Palace cinema in Riga on March 7, 2026. The film, a poignant blend of drama and comedy, explores complex family dynamics and personal struggles against the backdrop of contemporary Latvian life. The premiere marks a significant moment for Latvian cinema, showcasing a compelling narrative and strong performances from its cast.
“Nospiedumi” delves into the life of Līva, portrayed by Ieva Segliņa, a set designer in her thirties whose carefully constructed world is thrown into disarray by the unexpected return of her estranged father, a man grappling with alcoholism. Simultaneously, Līva’s relationship faces its own challenges, leaving her to confront old traumas and lingering doubts. The film likewise features Gatis Maliks as Līva’s partner, Mārcis, who is navigating his own personal crisis. The narrative promises a raw and honest portrayal of loss, heartbreak, and the search for self-discovery, all although maintaining a surprisingly hopeful tone.
A Story of Family, Trauma, and Resilience
The film’s synopsis, as detailed by the National Film Centre of Latvia, paints a picture of a woman grappling with a multitude of challenges. Liv’s life is upended when her father, once a promising artist, now struggles with alcoholism and requires hospitalization after a stroke. As she navigates the complexities of her father’s illness and her mother’s anxieties, Liv unexpectedly finds herself contemplating starting a family. This decision, however, is complicated by the unraveling of her marriage and the resurfacing of deeply rooted emotional wounds. “Nospiedumi” is described as a story of “slow death, a broken heart, fear of abandonment, and suffocation of one’s inner child, yet it also manages to be a perceive-good comedy.”
The film’s exploration of these themes resonates with a broader societal conversation about family relationships, addiction, and the pressures faced by modern individuals. The National Film Centre of Latvia highlights the film’s ability to balance heavy subject matter with moments of levity, creating a viewing experience that is both emotionally impactful and ultimately uplifting. The film’s length is 93 minutes, offering a concentrated and immersive narrative experience.
Premiere and Post-Screening Discussions
The premiere at the Splendid Palace wasn’t just a screening. it was an event designed to foster dialogue. Following the March 15th screening, audiences had the opportunity to engage directly with director Alise Zariņa and lead actress Ieva Segliņa. This Q&A session provided valuable insight into the creative process behind the film and the motivations of the characters. Another discussion is scheduled for March 21st, featuring Zariņa alongside Gatis Smidrovskis, Laura Bokiša, and Kārlis Gedrovics from the “Tēvi” (Fathers) association. This panel will focus on the portrayal of fatherhood within the film and its relevance to contemporary society.
The Splendid Palace is hosting multiple screenings of “Nospiedumi” throughout March, including showings on March 7th, 11th, 15th, 18th, and 21st, all in the Straumes zāle (Stream Hall). The film is presented in Latvian with English subtitles, making it accessible to an international audience. The age restriction of 16+ indicates the film’s mature themes and potentially sensitive content.
Alise Zariņa and the Creative Team
Alise Zariņa, the director of “Nospiedumi,” is establishing herself as a significant voice in Latvian cinema. This is her second feature film, following previous work that has garnered critical attention. The film benefits from a talented creative team, including cinematographer Mārtiņš Jurevics, production designer Juris Žukovskis, costume designer Ance Beinaroviča, and make-up designer Emīlija Eglīte. The cast also includes Eduards Johansons, Januss Johansons, Leonarda Ķestere, Anta Aizupe, Juta Vanaga, and Inese Ramute, contributing to the film’s rich and nuanced performances.
The production of “Nospiedumi” was supported by the National Film Centre of Latvia and carried out by Mima Films, with Alise Rogule serving as the producer. Mima Films, led by Rogule, is dedicated to bringing compelling Latvian stories to the screen. The film’s production reflects a commitment to quality filmmaking and a desire to explore complex human experiences.
International Recognition and Festival Presence
“Nospiedumi” (also known as “Flesh, Blood, Even a Heart”) has already begun to gain international recognition. It had its international premiere on November 18th at the POFF (Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival) Scriptwriter event. This early exposure suggests the film has the potential to resonate with audiences beyond Latvia’s borders. The film’s themes of family, loss, and resilience are universal, making it relatable to viewers from diverse cultural backgrounds.
The Splendid Palace is also hosting screenings as part of the ARTDOCFEST RIGA 2026, showcasing a diverse range of documentary films alongside “Nospiedumi.” This inclusion further highlights the cinema’s commitment to showcasing both Latvian and international cinematic talent. The festival’s presence at the Splendid Palace underscores Riga’s growing importance as a cultural hub.
Key Takeaways
- “Nospiedumi” is a Latvian drama-comedy exploring complex family dynamics and personal struggles.
- The film stars Ieva Segliņa and Gatis Maliks and is directed by Alise Zariņa.
- Premiered at the Splendid Palace in Riga on March 7, 2026, with post-screening discussions planned with the director and cast.
- The film has received international recognition, including a premiere at the POFF festival.
- “Nospiedumi” is supported by the National Film Centre of Latvia and produced by Mima Films.
The film’s success will likely depend on its ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level and spark meaningful conversations about the challenges and triumphs of modern life. With its strong cast, compelling narrative, and talented creative team, “Nospiedumi” is poised to make a significant contribution to Latvian cinema and beyond.
Further screenings of “Nospiedumi” are scheduled throughout March at the Splendid Palace. For those interested in attending, tickets can be purchased through the Splendid Palace website. The next key date for those following the film’s journey is March 21st, with the panel discussion focusing on fatherhood and the film’s themes.
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