Pietinia Kronikas

Didn't expect much by going to see this movie, but ended up being surprised.

Usually I don't like Lithuanian movies, because most of them are just based on other movie scripts, and acting is terrible, but this movie was something different.

It's bassed on 90s Lithuania, as I have never experienced it, this movie was very interesting. Well shot scenes, good camera work, 90s clothing and style.

Only bad thing was a poor plot. 2 hours of screen time and as a main character said: Kaip ir nieka nenutika ( Nothing really happened ). Maybe just some charakter improvement, but couldn't say that it was big. Everything stayed the same.

"The Southern Chronicles" is one of the most vivid time capsules capturing Lithuanian youth life, growing up in 90's. The sentimental details in the settings and sceneries brings back to rough reality of 90's. As much it has the most simple way of showing the simplicities of the problems of that period of life it also showcases the thoughtfulness and deep meanings behind of every idea that characters express. Even though the storyline is not fully unique, but the main character's development and progress stumbles you to carry on watching it.

To put it in the nutshell: Simple but quite deep and sentimental movie about youth life in 90's.

Pietinia kronikos might just be the first truly authentic Lithuanian coming-of-age film, evoking the spirit of J. D. Salinger's The Catcher in the Rye. What elevates this movie to instant classic status is its exceptional attention to detail and craftsmanship.

The casting is flawless - every character feels like they've been plucked straight from the 1990s. The art direction deserves special recognition for its meticulous recreation of the era: from the clothing and hairstyles to the cars and even the food. I discussed this with a few people who were young in the '90s, and the only noticeable anachronism we could spot was a blue leather jacket - a fashion item that simply didn't exist in early '90s Lithuania.

The soundtrack is another highlight, perfectly encapsulating the mood and cultural essence of the period. At its core, though, the movie owes much of its authenticity to R. Kmita's original story - a true coming-of-age tale that explores the struggles and complexities of youth without the sugary endings we've come to expect from Hollywood.

What makes Pietinia kronikos resonate so deeply is its humanity. Each character feels vivid and real, their stories relatable and unpolished, much like life itself. This is a film that doesn't just depict a time and place; it pulls you into it. For me, Pietinia kronikos is more than a movie - it's a window into a world that feels achingly familiar, a reminder of what it meant to grow, to struggle, and to live in 90s Lithuania.

Screenplay author made the flawless job - although the book containts lot's of important lines, there was no feeling that something is missed, the story line is perfect, there could be a sequel exploring those other lines. The picture is truly immersive. The content - R. Kmita created something so touching that you cannot look away. The movie touches you even you have already read the book. And both book and movie are splendid in their own sense.

The screenplay does not heavily explore the realities of 90-ies - it is explored thorugh work of the director and operator - picture, scenes. Characters made their best to be authentic - people, but from that era.

Enjoy!

Pietinia Kronikas is a nostalgic dive into the 1990s, blending drama with subtle comedy. The film's leisurely pace captures the essence of real life, portraying relatable, multifaceted characters rather than caricatures.

It paints a vivid picture of societal shifts and personal struggles during a pivotal time. The characters, though seemingly ordinary, possess depth and nuance, adding authenticity to the narrative. The film's humor, while understated, provides relief from the emotional weight, allowing moments of levity that feel grounded in the everyday.

The 90s aesthetic-rough, raw, and unpolished-gives the film a sense of realism that complements its slow-burn storytelling. It's not a fast-paced, plot-driven spectacle, but rather a thoughtful, character-focused exploration of life during a transitional era. Pietinia Kronikas is a slow yet satisfying reflection on the 90s, offering a snapshot of both individual and societal transformation.