Jānis Streičs was a prominent figure in Latvian cinema and culture, renowned for his versatility that extended beyond filmmaking to painting and writing. He was celebrated not just as a director but as a profound thinker whose insights were always respected by peers and audiences alike. Film historian Kristīne Matīsa expressed that Streičs was more than a director; he was a concept or an ocean, highlighting the depth and impact of his work on Latvian identity and the arts.

Reflecting on Streičs' significant contributions, Matīsa noted that he was so iconic in the Latvian film scene that he would likely be the first filmmaker named by any random person on the street. His films contain deeply embedded codes of Latvian identity, which are not merely superficial expressions but part of a rich narrative intrinsic to the culture. For example, the film "Limuzīns Jāņu nakts krāsā" is often cited in surveys as the greatest Latvian film of all time, illustrating the lasting impact of his storytelling.

Streičs’ legacy is characterized by his ability to resonate with Latvian audiences through themes that evoke nostalgia, examination of cultural roots, and a celebration of the Latvian way of life. His passing marks the end of an era in which he paved the way for future generations of filmmakers and artists to explore and articulate the complexities of Latvian identity through the powerful medium of cinema.