Lithuanian Crime Drama ‘The Activist’ Explores LGBTQ+ Themes and Violence

A new crime drama titled The Activist (Lithuanian: Aktyvistas) has emerged in Lithuania, blending themes of LGBTQ+ rights, violence, and the complexities of activism. Written and directed by Romas Zabarauskas, this film is the third in his queer trilogy, following The Lawyer (2020) and The Writer (2023).

The film debuted in Lithuania on September 19, 2023, where it opened in the second position at the box office. It is set to have its international premiere at the 29th Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival on November 14.

The plot centers around the murder of Deividas (played by Elvinas Juodkazis), a prominent human rights activist in Kaunas, shortly before the city’s inaugural LGBTQ+ march. Tensions rise as Deividas had a confrontation with his secret lover, Andrius (portrayed by Robertas Petraitis), who struggles with his identity and fears for the community’s safety. Overcome by grief and guilt, Andrius embarks on a personal investigation that uncovers a web of deceit surrounding Deividas.

The supporting cast includes Vaslov Goom as Bernardas, who is determined to maintain the strength of the activist group Rainbow, and Redita Dominaityte as politician Rolanda Markeviciene. Other notable characters are played by Tekle Baroti, Karolis Kasperavicius, and Arnoldas Augustaitis, who portray individuals with contrasting views, including neo-Nazis attempting to disrupt the LGBTQ+ march.

Exclusive Clips Offer Insight into the Film

In a recent exclusive reveal by The Hollywood Reporter, three clips from The Activist provide a glimpse into the film’s narrative and its characters. One clip features Juodkazis as Deividas and Dominaityte as Rolanda Markeviciene confronting a protest led by neo-Nazis. Another clip showcases a meeting of right-wing activists, where tensions mount as they discuss plans to sabotage the LGBTQ+ event.

As viewers see Andrius in undercover mode among the right-wing group, the stakes become palpable. The final clip focuses on a tense conversation between Andrius and Goom’s Bernardas, highlighting the dangers of investigation and the looming threat of scandal. These clips collectively emphasize the film’s gripping exploration of activism, identity, and societal conflict.

As The Activist prepares for its international audience, it stands as a poignant reflection of contemporary social issues, embodying the struggles faced by the LGBTQ+ community in Lithuania and beyond.