REVIEW ⟩ The Virgin of Koidula and the Eternal Estonian Summer: Anatomy of Taska-Kulla's New Film
This article reviews the new film by Taska-Kulla, focusing on its thematic exploration of an eternal summer in Estonia.
The article reviews the latest film from the directing duo Taska and Kulla, recognized for their previous works such as 'Winter' (2019), 'Swamp' (2021), and 'Flawed Brides' (2023). The piece highlights the unique settings of their films, which portray a magical version of Estonia characterized by an eternal July, filled with nightingales singing, grasshoppers chirping, and harvesting activities occurring simultaneously. This whimsical depiction resonates with the cultural longing for such idyllic scenes during the bleak winter months.
The enchanting landscape of their films serves as a backdrop to the stories, reflecting a nostalgic yearning for a simpler, more picturesque Estonia. In their narrative style, Taska and Kulla amalgamate elements of reality and fantasy, blending local folklore with contemporary themes. This synthesis creates a cinematic experience that transports viewers to an idealized version of Estonia, emphasizing the timeless beauty of its nature.
The article notes that Taska remains tight-lipped about future projects, indicating that audiences can likely expect another film in this genre in a few years. As a trend in Estonian cinema, these films are not only entertaining but also explore deeper cultural sentiments, connecting the audience with their national identity and the longing for brighter seasons amidst the harshness of reality.