Lithuanian Film ‘The Southern Chronicles’ Captures 1990s Spirit
Lithuania’s submission for the 2026 Academy Award for Best International Feature, titled The Southern Chronicles (Pietinia Kronikas), is generating significant buzz. Directed by Ignas Miškinis, the film takes audiences back to the early days of Lithuania’s independence from the Soviet Union, which occurred in March 1990. With a unique blend of nostalgia and cultural exploration, this cinematic piece stands out in a landscape dominated by contemporary themes.
Set against the backdrop of the 1990s, The Southern Chronicles features period outfits, a design aesthetic reminiscent of the era, and a soundtrack rich with Eurodance classics, including hits like Culture Beat’s “Mr. Vain” and Technotronic’s “Pump Up the Jam.” The film follows the coming-of-age story of Rimantas, a 17-year-old navigating the complexities of youth, societal changes, and personal identity. Miškinis has created a narrative that resonates with both local and international audiences, showcasing the evolution of Lithuania’s cultural landscape.
The film is adapted from the bestselling novel by Rimantas Kmita and has already garnered critical acclaim, winning the Baltic competition at the 2024 Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival and claiming 12 awards out of 14 nominations at the 2025 Lithuanian Silver Crane Awards, including Best Feature Film and Best Director.
Exploring the 1990s Through Film
Miškinis aims to portray a genuine depiction of Lithuanian life during the 1990s. He intentionally avoided a modern perspective, stating, “I didn’t want to make a movie with a point of view from our days. My vision was to make a movie not about 1994 but to make a movie which looks like it was actually made in 1994.” This authenticity is further emphasized by the director’s choice to use 16mm film and VHS cameras, mirroring the technological limitations of the time.
The film is set in Šiauliai, which Miškinis describes as “the capital of rugby in Lithuania.” The director faced challenges while shooting rugby scenes, emphasizing the need for authenticity. He noted, “Technically, rugby is difficult to shoot because you have a lot of people in a scene, and we were trying to build an authentic story.”
Miškinis acknowledges that while the film’s content might seem lighthearted, it reflects the complex emotions tied to that tumultuous era. He recalls his own experiences as a teenager during the 1990s, stating, “For me, the ’90s were the most horrible time in my life. Not only for me, for my whole generation.” This reflection on a period marked by corruption and crime adds depth to the film’s narrative.
A Soundtrack of Nostalgia
The soundtrack, while not Miškinis’s personal taste at the time, plays a crucial role in evoking the era. He admits, “I was more a headbanger with long hair, and I hated those Culture Beat, Snap or whatever. This wasn’t my music at all.” Yet, he and the creative team approached the music as if they were hearing it for the first time, creating an engaging and humorous experience that helps bridge the gap between past and present.
The cast includes rising talents such as Džiugas Grinys, recognized as one of the European Shooting Stars at the 2024 Berlinale, alongside Robertas Petraitis, who stars in this year’s noir thriller The Activist, and Irena Sikorskytė. Their performances contribute to the film’s authenticity and emotional resonance.
Overall, The Southern Chronicles presents a mix of nostalgia and cultural reflection that captures the essence of a pivotal moment in Lithuania’s history. As it vies for international recognition, the film not only showcases the talent emerging from Lithuania but also invites audiences to engage with a crucial chapter of its past.
