Lithuanian Cinema Icon Juozas Budraitis Earns Lifetime Achievement Award at Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival

Lithuanian acting legend Juozas Budraitis will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 29th Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival. The festival announced this honor on Friday. The award celebrates his immense contribution to cinema.Budraitis, 85, is often called “the James Dean of the Baltics.” His career spans nearly six decades. He has performed in over 120 film and television roles.

A Storied Career Spanning Generations

Budraitis has portrayed a vast range of characters. He played everything from revolutionaries to kings. His work has left a significant mark on Estonian and international cinema.According to Reuters, his film Wounded Game was screened at the 1977 Cannes Film Festival. More recently, he appeared in the hit Netflix series The Queen’s Gambit. His small role as a chess player was memorable for global audiences.

Festival to Screen Tribute Films

The festival will honor Budraitis by screening two films. The first is Nerijus Milerius’s biographical documentary Old Man’s Journeys. It is a portrait of the icon, revisiting his life and roles.The second film is Mantas Verbiejus’s Sand in Your Hair. Budraitis plays a supporting role alongside other Lithuanian acting greats. The story explores love and freedom in later life.

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This Lifetime Achievement Award solidifies Juozas Budraitis’s status as a towering figure in European film. His enduring career continues to inspire new generations of actors and filmmakers across the Baltic region and beyond.

Thought you’d like to know

Who is Juozas Budraitis?

Juozas Budraitis is a legendary Lithuanian screen and theater actor. He has been active since 1966 and has over 120 credits. He is often called the James Dean of the Baltics.

What is the Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival?

The Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival is a major annual international film event. It is held in Estonia. The 2024 edition will be its 29th.

Which films featuring Budraitis will be shown at PÖFF?

The festival will screen the documentary *Old Man’s Journeys* and the feature film *Sand in Your Hair*. Both films highlight his recent work and lasting legacy.

How many films has Juozas Budraitis appeared in?

Throughout his long career, Budraitis has appeared in more than 120 film and television roles. His career began in the mid-1960s.

Why is he receiving this award now?

The award recognizes his lifetime of contribution to the arts. It coincides with his recent 85th birthday, celebrating his enduring vitality and influence.