Lithuanian Film “Hunger Strike Breakfast” Reflects Modern Ukraine War Anxieties

A new Lithuanian film explores a pivotal 1991 protest with startling modern relevance. “Hunger Strike Breakfast” world premiered at the Warsaw Film Festival. It now screens in competition at the Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival.

Director Karolis Kaupinis uses a historical event to examine collective action. The film’s themes resonate deeply with current fears over Russian aggression.

Film Unpacks the Personal Behind the Political

The story is set after the 1991 Soviet invasion of Lithuania. Soviet troops seized the Lithuanian Radio and Television headquarters. This left 700 media workers suddenly unemployed.

According to the director, the real-life protest was long and strangely organized. People rotated on a hunger strike for months. Kaupinis discovered their personal motivations were often deeply private, not purely political. Some sought escape from home lives or time with a colleague.

Director Draws Parallels to Current European Conflict

Kaupinis began developing the film after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. He sees the movie’s setup as a metaphor for the current geopolitical situation. The occupied TV building represents Ukraine, while an indifferent apartment block symbolizes Western Europe.

The film’s trailer, a temporary protest site, reflects the precarious position of Baltic states. Kaupinis told The Hollywood Reporter they feel they are “waiting for Godot.” They want to act meaningfully but have limited capacity.

The director and other creatives in Lithuania are now protesting their own government. He warns of Moscow’s influence in the current ruling coalition’s attacks on cultural institutions.

The film “Hunger Strike Breakfast” provides a poignant look at how personal struggles fuel political movements, making this historical drama urgently contemporary.

Thought you’d like to know

What is “Hunger Strike Breakfast” about?

The film follows Lithuanian TV employees after Soviets seize their building in 1991. It explores their long-running, rotating hunger strike. The story focuses on their hidden personal motivations.

Who directed the film?

Lithuanian writer-director Karolis Kaupinis directed the film. His prior feature, “Nova Lituania,” was Lithuania’s Oscar submission in 2021. He previously worked in political television.

How does the film connect to the war in Ukraine?

The director explicitly links the 1991 Soviet invasion to Russia’s current war. He states the film’s setting acts as a direct metaphor for the conflict and the wider European response.

Is the film based on a true story?

Yes, it is inspired by real events and people. Kaupinis conducted interviews with former TV staff who participated in the actual protest. Their stories shaped the film’s characters and plot.

Where has the film been shown?

“Hunger Strike Breakfast” premiered at the Warsaw Film Festival. It is now part of the Baltic Film Competition at the Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival.