The Estonian Film Institute has selected Mir Pariale’s youth-centered comedy drama “Rolling Paper” (Picado Paverido), as the official submission for the 98th Academy Awards in the best international feature film category.
The film is directed and written by Paliale based on a story created in Urmet Piiling.
“Rolling Paper” follows Sebastian, who works as a store clerk. He encounters Silo, a free wanderer, and finds his normal working days shaking. Together, they smoke weeds and dream of a one-way ticket to Brazil.
“This is a film about young people who don’t know what to do in their lives,” Paliale said.
“Based on his own experiences and conversations with his peers, Paliale creates a story rooted in authentic dialogue and real situations, providing a realistic portrait of the life of today’s youth,” the producer’s statement said.
The film premiered in the Just Film Section (International Youth Competition section) at Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival (Pöff) and won the Audience Award. “The audience is drawn to the portrayal of modern youth, rooted in realism and supported by aspiration for purpose,” the statement said.
“Rolling Paper” was also recognized as the 2024 Film of the Year by the Estonian Cultural Fund.
The cast includes Mihkel Kuusk, Karl Birnbaum, Maria Helena Seppik, Edgar Vunš and Juhan Soon.
The film was filmed by Markus Mikk. The production design is by Jasmine Kragina. And the sound is from the Junus Timera.
The producers are Rainlanne and Tunuhiyeraid for Talifornia.
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