The 22nd edition of Vilnius Film Festival Kino Pavasaris will bring filmgoers the diversity of Romanian cinema – this year’s partner country. The six selected films showcase the masters of Romanian New Wave, as well as directors with their own unique identity, all depicting their country in a new light.

 More than 10 years have passed since the world first took notice of New Wave cinema coming out of Romania. The new phenomenon was realist, minimalist, low-budget, didn’t shy away from the country’s historical background, and had a unique sense of humor. Romanian directors have no intention of stopping their winning streak, as illustrated by the new films included in this year’s festival.

 Cristi Puiu and Cristian Mungiu, who are widely considered to be the founding fathers of New Wave, will return to Vilnius after successfully premiering their new films at last year’s Cannes. Their works are master classes in directing, with the subtleties of realism delivered by skillful actors.

 Puiu’s Sieranevada takes places almost entirely in a Soviet-era apartment. A large family gathers for a traditional Orthodox dinner to commemorate the passing of their patriarch. Everything does not go off without a hitch, as conflicts, misunderstandings and grievances arise.

 Mungiu’s Graduation demonstrates how far parents are willing to go in order to ensure their children’s success. Compromises, corruption and markings of the former political regime make this a thrilling drama, which earned Mungiu the Best Director award at the 2016 Cannes Film Festival.

 Adrian Sitaru returns to Vilnius with The Fixer, after screening his first feature film Illegitimate here last year. His new film examines the ethical line walked by an ambitious journalist looking to advance his career.

 Dogs, the debut film from Bogdan Mirică, represents a new kind of film in Romanian cinema. It follows a young man who is thrust into the deadly machinations of his deceased grandfather’s rivals in rural Romania. Critics have compared this suspenseful film to the cult No Country for Old Men.

 Radu Jude’s Scarred Hearts is an intelligent drama that is melancholic and funny at the same time. The film takes place in a sanatorium on the shores of the Black Sea, back in 1937. Even though the setting may appear somber, the patients prove they can still enjoy their lives and even fall in love. Jude’s last film, Aferim!, earned him the Silver Bear for Best Director at the 2015 Berlinale.

 Comedy Two Lottery Tickets from Paul Negoescu, is a low-budget road film that follows three friends in search of their lucky, but unfortunately misplaced, lottery ticket.

“The Romanian Embassy is honoured to be the official partner of Vilnius Film Festival in 2017. This is a recognition of Romanian cinema and an opportunity for Lithuanian audiences to get better acquainted with our films,” said Dan Adrian Balanescu, Ambassador of Romania.