Despite a frigid Saturday evening many of Ottawa's film lovers braved the weather to attend the screening. Gita Kalmet, the Estonian Ambassador to Canada briefly introduced the film and those in attendance were rewarded by a film of quiet and subtle charm, which brought warmth to all. Comments heard at the end of the film, indicated that it appealed to viewers at several levels. Some comments praised the cinematography, the acting, the characters and the scenario. Others stated that the scenery in the film was enticement to visit the woods and nature in Estonia. Still others considered it a feel-good movie and expressed a desire to see more such films.
The film was indeed a love story, but perhaps of love in more ways than first comes to mind on Valentine's Day. The scenery in the film of the Estonian countryside and woods provided an eloquent reminder of why Estonians have such a close and loving relationship with the nature of their country. Perhaps as in genuine love between two people, the love of Estonian nature is revealed not so much by an impact that overwhelms us but by the silent contemplation inspired through its beauty and calm.
Tõnu Onu
