Latvian Film Explores Trauma, Anger, and Healing

Alise Zariņa's latest feature, "Flesh, Blood, Even a Heart," premiered at the Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival, coinciding with Latvia's Independence Day. The film centers on Liv, a woman navigating body insecurities and a strained relationship with her estranged father after he suffers a stroke.

Director Zariņa shared that the film isn't solely about forgiveness but also about acknowledging anger and complex emotional responses to trauma. She aimed to avoid presenting a simplistic or magical solution, emphasizing that trauma lingers and profoundly impacts individuals.

Lead actress Ieva Segliņa revealed a personal connection to the film's themes, as her father passed away during rehearsals. Despite the challenging subject matter, she found the experience cathartic, laughing frequently during the premiere and feeling a sense of healing.