PÖFF: Hunger Strike Breakfast

Have you ever loved someone who loved you back? Major events often begin with small, unnoticed encounters. In January 1991, thousands of Lithuanians took to the streets to protest against advancing Soviet forces. The invasion was halted, but the soldiers seized the Lithuanian Radio and Television headquarters, leaving 700 employees suddenly out of work. Just yesterday, Mykolas was a director; today, he is no one. A man of principle, he once slipped fancy food from the TV buffet, but now he wonders whether the games played with freedom were worth it, fearing that the occupiers will remember everyone who dared to speak out. Announcer Daiva, well known and admired, is determined to resist, despite feeling lonely and exhausted. Young actor Sigis is eager to help, though he worries the noise might wake his newborn child. In the darkest moments, people long for a hug or a simple conversation – about feelings, pain, hopes, dreams – even when the future remains uncertain. Lithuania regained its independence in 1990, yet for many, freedom only began to feel real a decade later.

Edvinas Pukšta