JURY REPORT
The jury’s work went smoothly, but it was quite a challenge to review all the films and decide on the winners. There were many films that deserved awards, so each of us had to find strong arguments in the selection. It is gratifying that in most cases the jury’s opinions coincided, so we are confident that the best films won.
WINNERS
1st Prize/ AMATEURS category
AQUARIUM (AKVAARIO)
by Jonathan Guzman Monet, Finland, experimental & fiction (15:56 min)
The film captivates with its evocative atmosphere and delicate visual language. In a vulnerable way, it conveys the fear of rejection and loneliness.
1st Prize/ STUDENT FILMS category
COME SIT WITH US (ÄRÄ OLE UHKE)
by Elis Rumma, Estonia, fiction (14:06 min)
Tallinn University/ Baltic Film, Media and Arts School
The film convinced us with its carefully crafted mise-en-scène. We consider the portrayal of social pressure, and the way women are part of the patriarchy while also suffering from it, to be a very important theme. The depiction of the characters was subtle and staged with great intelligence.
1st Prize/ PROFESSIONALS category
IDYLL (IDÜLL)
by Rao Heidmets, Estonia, animated (10 min)
The very beautiful, individual artistic approach and the theme of war, combined with the attempt to keep the family together, feel especially relevant in a time when war is so immediate. And yet the story is told in a witty and sarcastic way. It was refreshing.
JURY MENTIONS OF HONOUR
THE ONE WHO FLOATS (VAIN YKSI VOI KELLUA)
by Jasmin Gummerus, Finland, fiction (16:02 min)
Aalto University, ELO Film School Finland
The film portrays human reconciliation with oneself, along with many small details, and outstanding cinematography.
FISH RIVER ANTHOLOGY (MEREN ELÄVIÄ)
by Veera Lamminpää, Finland, animated (09:30 min)
Aalto University, ELO Film School Finland
The impactful music Animation deserves special mention, not only for its refreshing and creative way of portraying consumer culture, but also because it is one of the most engaging and beautiful short films.
WINNER OF GOLDEN BALTIC HERRING AWARD 2025
MEMORIES MOVE LIKE DISTANT ISLANDS
(MUISTOT LIIKKUVAT KUIN KAUKAISET SAARET)
by Saarlotta Virri, Finland, documentary (29 min)
Aalto University, ELO Film School Finland
The film is compelling because it poetically explores nature and our heritage, showing how we interact with the natural world while also reflecting on the end of its transmission. At the same time, human mortality remains present. The film flows beautifully, making it a gentle and memorable experience.
