Animals, Climate, and Urban Nature on the Big Screen
Text Susanna Poikela
Photos MAFF
Every autumn, the town of Lihula on Estonia’s western coast transforms into a hub for nature films, as it hosts the Matsalu Nature Film Festival, or MAFF. This year, the event takes place from 24 September to 5 October. The festival brings together nature and documentary filmmakers and an audience interested in environmental topics. Today, screenings are held not only in Lihula but in other parts of Estonia, as well.
The themes of MAFF’s documentaries include animals, the relationship between humans and nature, climate change, urban nature, and the preservation of biodiversity. In addition to the competition films, the festival offers a broad side programme featuring photo exhibitions, school programmes, discussions, and workshops.
The screening languages vary, but all competition films are screened with English subtitles.
The festival has gained international recognition. Since 2017, it has held the EFFE quality label—Europe for Festivals, Festivals for Europe—which signifies a high standard and an important position among European festivals. With a festival pass, which costs €50, you can attend all screenings.
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