For a quarter of a century, Just Film has brought countless films to the big screen, enjoyed by tens of thousands of young and old film lovers alike.

At such an important milestone, it is a good moment to look back and reflect on how far the festival has come.

Compared to its early years, much has changed—the program has grown in size, every year hundreds of filmmakers from all over the world visit Just Film, a special section for film professionals has emerged, film education is actively promoted on a daily basis, young people have the chance to make and present their own films at Just Film, and much more. Altogether, this creates a kind of magical whole: not only are films watched, but audiences grow and evolve together with them.

There is now an entire generation of visitors who once came to Just Film as children and now return with children of their own. How wonderful it is that such a phenomenon has endured for so long. All of this has been possible thanks to the many people who have put their hearts into the festival over the years, working tirelessly to make sure it comes to life again and again each year. I want to thank all the organizers and supporters, teachers, friends, acquaintances, and above all, the audience of Just Film—because without you, this festival would be unimaginable. A very special thank you goes to PÖFF director Tiina Lokk and to Just Film’s first long-term director Elen Lotman, who brought the festival to life. Elen’s dedicated, purposeful, and thoughtful work laid a strong foundation on which the festival still firmly stands today. A heartfelt thank you to you all!

This year’s Just Film is significant in many ways. For the first time in the festival’s history, filmmakers from across the world have entrusted us with more premieres than ever before. This means the festival is hosting a record number of world premieres. These films have never been screened anywhere else, and our young people and children will be among the very first audiences in the world to see them. In Just Film’s two main sections—the Youth Film Competition and the Children’s Film Competition—every film this year is a premiere. Friends, that is a big deal! I hope to see you all in the cinema halls to enjoy the art of film in all its beauty. In addition, Just Film is celebrating its birthday together with Lotte, who also turns 25 this year. A big and festive joint birthday party awaits!

The Just Film program has always been more than just films. It has offered adventures in incredible places, good humor, but also serious topics that at times make us cry, at times laugh. This year’s program serves as a kind of mirror, reflecting everything the festival has valued over the past 25 years. It is a program of hope, reminding us that nothing is ever lost—no matter how difficult or dark life or the world may seem, goodness and brighter times are always closer than we think, and together we can overcome anything.

Many, many congratulations!

Mikk Granström
Director of Just Film

Check out the gallery to see Just Film’s journey from its early days to the present!