Verekivi

Although sometimes called "the poor man's The Last Relic" (which is the most famous Estonian historical action film), Verekivi still managed to earn its place as a cult classic. Set in Tallinn in 1535 and based on real events, it tells the dramatic story of Baron von Üxküll - a cruel pirate and nobleman whose crimes eventually lead to his execution. After a failed attack, a former peasant named Matis, now a free man, ends up in the middle of the conflict. His role highlights the ongoing fight for freedom against powerful rulers.

Verekivi was the first and only full-length film by director Madis Ojamaa. It's known for its many problems - the story is weak, most characters are simple and uninteresting (except for the more complex villain von Üxküll), and the production feels unprofessional. Yet, these flaws have made the film oddly enjoyable for some viewers. One of the strangest features is its cheerful music, which often plays during serious or sad scenes. While it doesn't fit, this mismatch gives the movie a quirky charm, making it entertaining in an unexpected way.

Although Verekivi doesn't have the excitement, love story, or high-quality production of The Last Relic, it offers a stronger sense of history and a clear look at the fight between ordinary people and the elite. Its core message - that no one is above the law - still feels important today. In the end, Verekivi is far from perfect, but it remains a bold and interesting piece of Estonian film history.

This film is called 'Poor Mans The Last Relic'. It is obvious that this film was made in vain of much more superior adventure classic 'The Last Relic'. 'Verekivi' (Blood Stone?) was the director's first feature and it went to become his last. Well, it is clear - the film is probably the greatest Estonian bad films of all times. So bad it's good. The script was badly developed, characters were one dimensional (maybe except Baron Von Üxküll), staging was amateurish, and that soundtrack. Don't get me wrong - the soundtrack was cool, but it was totally out of place. The music mostly didn't fit into the film or ruined the atmosphere of the scene. Dramatic and tragic scene where something horrible happens with the character, and then - an upbeat song starts to play. Tell me about inappropriate film score. The music annoyed at first, but after first 20 minutes I started to enjoy it. This so out of the place music gave much more entertaining value to the messy scenario and direction.

With that great soundtrack and couple of stand out lines or one liners, like they are called, that film is true Estonian cult film in the purest sense. So bad it is actually enjoyable. And the short running time doesn't turn it into excruciating viewing experience.