Viesturs Kairišs' Ulya Opens at Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival

The Latvian Oscar submission for Best International Feature Film, "Ulya, has generated significant interest among international distributors ahead of its opening at the Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival.

Sales have been closed for North America and France, while the film is also set to be released in Italy, Slovakia, former Yugoslavia, Estonia, Lithuania, MENA, Finland, Poland, and Brazil. This widespread appeal suggests that Ulya has broad international appeal beyond its home market. The film's producers are represented by B-Rated International for sales.

The black-and-white film, directed by Viesturs Kairišs, premiered at the Cannes Film Festival in the Un Certain Regard section and will open the 30th edition of Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival. Ulya is a unique take on the life of legendary basketball player Ulyana Semjonova, born in 1952.

The film's director has stated that he was not interested in making a typical biopic about sports figures, but rather wanted to tell a more arthouse-inspired story about a giant girl living in the countryside. I don't think I could ever make a nice, typical biopic. My interest lies in arthouse films, Kairišs said.

The film's cinematography aimed to capture Ulyana Semjonova's inner world in a subjective and intimate manner. To achieve this, Kairišs employed unconventional camera techniques, including the use of crazy cameras and slightly out-of-focus shots.

Semjonova's towering height made her a somewhat reclusive figure, but it was also a defining characteristic that inspired the film's creative team. They sought to convey the complexities and nuances of her personality through their visual approach.

The idea for making a film about Semjonova did not originate with Kairišs. Instead, it was first conceived by his lead actor, Kārlis Arnolds Avots, who had long been fascinated by the subject's story.

The creative team behind Ulya" had to persuade some colleagues to buy into their unconventional approach to storytelling. Initially, everyone was leaning towards a more traditional biopic format, but the filmmakers were adamant that their vision was the right one.

In fact, Semjonova herself gave her blessing for the film's unique take on her life story. A photograph of her with Kārlis Arnolds Avots, which is featured in the movie, serves as a poignant reminder of her support. Unfortunately, she passed away in January 2026.

Avots' connection to Semjonova went beyond just playing her on screen. He felt an affinity for her experiences as an outsider and a giant in her own right. As it turns out, his portrayal of Semjonova has resonated with audiences who may not necessarily identify with her physical stature but can relate to feeling like they're hiding or struggling with their true selves.

The film's message of self-acceptance is one that Avots believes everyone can connect with, regardless of their size.

The film's performance has been nothing short of remarkable, with audiences in Latvia responding enthusiastically. In fact, 'Ulya' has already become one of the most-watched films in Latvian history, ranking second on that list.

The film's universal appeal is a testament to its thought-provoking message. Kairišs notes that people from all over the world, including at international festivals like Cannes and Rome, have been drawn to the story. Even in Los Angeles, where expectations for cinematic experiences can be high, 'Ulya' has made a lasting impression.

The film's themes of self-acceptance and individuality are particularly relevant in today's society, where there is often pressure to conform to certain standards or norms. By embracing our differences, rather than trying to change them, we can learn to celebrate what makes us unique.