Juste Michailinaite

PRODUCER, BROOM FILMS

1Right now, I am working on several active projects which are at different stages. Recently, I completed two shorts which are currently in post-production: Reminiscence by Kristijonas Dirse, and The Secret by Kestutis Drazdauskas. The stories of these films are very different – one is based on historical events, one is a family drama – as are the sensibilities and visual languages of the directors. I feel passionately about making both films and getting them on to screens, and I believe they will find their audiences at festivals and on other platforms.

Another project, Požerskis: In Focus by Joris Skudra, is in production. Požerskis: In Focus is a feature-length documentary about one of Lithuania’s most influential photographers, Romualdas Požerskis. It’s one man’s story that also encapsulates the broader context of the destruction of a country’s culture during the Soviet era, which gave birth to collectives of rebellious artists who fought for independence through their art. I am very proud to be producing this film, as I am a big fan of this photographer, and I believe that now is the perfect time to capture the work of this brilliant artist.

I also have several other projects, including co-productions, in the development and pre-production stages. I hope they will turn into beautiful success stories.

For me, it is important to work with young directors who are trying to find their voice in the industry, as well as to help strong stories reach their audiences. I believe that a producer should be a mentor, guide and supporter, taking responsibility for a film and working with it all the way from development to distribution. The greatest pleasure and reward is to see how it grows.

2I strongly believe in collaboration and partnership. So, this year my expectations are to find solid partners – in production and distribution – with whom we will be able to create long-lasting professional friendships and bring beautiful and moving stories to the big screen. Of course, I also have a personal goal – to grow and become a better producer. I believe that one of the ways to achieve this is to meet new people, discuss and share experiences. That’s my biggest wish.

Questions

What are you currently working on? Your expectations for this year’s Berlinale?