Based on Eno Raud's two beloved stories, this 1981 Estonian film is directed by Raivo Trass (his debut as a film director). The 65-minute youth feature follows a group of kids in a small and quaint Soviet-era town, where a boy's disappearance sets off a chain of heartfelt discoveries. The focus here is on youthful curiosity, budding romance, and the subtle transitions from childhood to self-awareness.
Set in an idyllic rural town Vändra-complete with tidy streets, tractors, and friendly policemen-the film captures a strange yet endearing aesthetic. With amateur child actors (most of them currently active in acting and music scenes, e.g. Ülari Kirsipuu, Maria Avdjushko, Mihkel Raud) and delightfully awkward performances from adults, it carries a unique vintage charm. Viive Ernesaks' whimsical score (her debut as a film music composer) adds a layer of innocent magic. This film may be naive in execution, but its earnestness and heart make it an unforgettable gem.
