Director Viesturs Kairišs’ feature film “Uļa” premiered to audiences at the “Splendid Palace” cinema on the evening of September 15. The screening drew the film’s creative team, actors, cultural figures, and Latvian State President Edgars Rinkēvičs, concluding with a standing ovation from attendees.
From Cannes to Oscar Consideration
The biographical drama follows the life of legendary Latvian basketball player Uļjana Semjonova, exploring her rise to the top of world basketball alongside themes of identity, loneliness, and piederību (belonging). According to press reports, the feature previously held its world premiere in the “Un Certain Regard” program at the Cannes Film Festival and has been selected as Latvia’s official submission for the Best International Feature Film category at the upcoming Academy Awards.
“Uļa happened! The premiere was surprisingly emotional! He added that something significant and indelible had occurred for the film team.”
International Production and Cast
The lead role of Uļjana Semjonova is played by Kārlis Arnolds Avots, who also co-wrote the screenplay and contributed to the initial project idea. Avots missed the Riga premiere because he is currently working in Ireland on a major international series created by “Vikings” creator Michael Hirst, though he addressed the audience via a video greeting.
The film is a multi-country co-production involving companies from Latvia, Estonia, Poland, and Lithuania, specifically produced by “Ego Media” alongside “Allfilm”, “Staron Film”, and “Tremora”, with distribution handled by “Acme Film”. Additional screenplay duties were shared by Līvija Ulmane and Andris Feldmanis. The production was lensed by Polish cinematographer Wojciech Staroń, with artistic direction handled by Ieva Jurjāne.
Wide Release in Latvia
Following the red-carpet premiere, “Uļa” opened in cinemas across Latvia on September 16, with screenings scheduled in regional venues including the Bauska Cultural Centre. Financial and institutional backing for the project came from the National Film Centre of Latvia, Riga City Council, Daugavpils Municipality, Augšdaugava Municipality, and corporate sponsors such as “Latvijas Mobilais Telefons”, “Latvijas Finieris”, and “Rietumu Banka”, among others.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I watch the film “Uļa”?
The film is showing in cinemas across Latvia starting September 16. A full schedule and venue list are available at filmaula.lv.
Who stars in the film?
Actor Kārlis Arnolds Avots plays the lead role and served as a co-writer on the project.
Is “Uļa” submitted for any awards?
Yes. The film represents Latvia as its official contender for the Academy Award for Best International Feature Film, following its premiere in Cannes.
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