Eight lake views of the Japanese art tradition translated into the language of the longings and desires of Old Believers at Lake Peipus.
On the shimmering shores of Europe’s otherworldly edge, two teenage girls, Hanake and her best friend are discussing their first love interest while gazing out at yachts sailing to Kyoto. They whisper prayers and poems, the language of their longings. But the magic is fading in their isolated fishing village as they’re dealing with a recent disaster, with some indulging in erotic art, some in spiritual spells. It becomes clear that intimacy alone won’t help them process their loss.
“A peculiar and spiritual world…One of the most unique films of the year and maybe even a bona-fide masterpiece” (Cineuropa)
“Contemplative and profound” (In Review Online)
Film is selected as Estonia’s nomination for Best International Feature at the 2025 Academy Award.
”8 Views of Lake Biwa” festivals:
World Premiere – International Film Festival Rotterdam 2024
Nouveau Cinema D’A Barcelona 2024
Art Fest Kosice 2024
Transilvania International Film Festival 2024
European Film Festival Palić 2024
Helsinki International Film Festival – Love & Anarchy 2024
Riga International Film Festival 2024
Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival 2024
Hanoi International Film Festival 2024
New York Baltic Film Festival 2024
Emirates Film Festival 2025
Selected as Estonia’s nomination for Best International Feature at the 2025 Academy Award.