Lithuanian writer-director Karolis Kaupinis premiered his latest film, Hunger Strike Breakfast, at the Warsaw Film Festival, showcasing a poignant exploration of collective action in the wake of historical trauma. The film, which will screen on November 20 as part of the Baltic Film Competition at the 29th Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival (PÖFF), is inspired by the Soviet invasion of Lithuania in January 1991.
Set against the backdrop of the occupation of the Lithuanian Radio & TV headquarters in Vilnius, the narrative follows characters grappling with their identities and motivations during a time of national crisis. Kaupinis’ previous feature, Nova Lituania, was Lithuania’s Oscar submission for Best International Feature in 2021, addressing themes of nationalism and post-Soviet identity.
The film’s synopsis describes how, following the invasion, thousands of Lithuanians protested against the advancing Soviet forces. While the invasion was ultimately halted, Soviet soldiers seized control of vital media outlets, leaving approximately 700 employees unemployed. Characters such as Mykolas, a former director now struggling to find purpose, and Daiva, a determined announcer, embody the human experience during this tumultuous period.
Kaupinis drew inspiration from personal memories of the invasion. “The night of January 13, 1991, is one of my earliest memories,” he shared in an interview. His conversations with colleagues from that era revealed the complexities of motivations behind the hunger strikes that occurred during that time. “Initially, they spoke of freedom and independence, but deeper discussions often revealed personal drives, such as the desire for connection with colleagues,” he explained.
The film captures the essence of the hunger strike—a symbol of resistance and a metaphor for the “occupation of the mind.” Kaupinis reflects on how this theme resonates today, particularly in light of Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine. He noted that the dynamics portrayed in Hunger Strike Breakfast mirror current geopolitical tensions, as Baltic societies grapple with their realities.
Kaupinis initially aimed to depict the Soviet propaganda attempts to control Lithuanian TV, but shifted focus to the lived experiences of those involved in the hunger strike after the Ukraine conflict began. The characters are composites inspired by real individuals, with Daiva representing two women who played critical roles during the protests.
In discussing the film’s broader implications, Kaupinis pointed to the influence of Russian political strategies on current Lithuanian governance. He indicated a growing concern over the ruling coalition’s actions, which he believes have been fueled by external pressures. “We very clearly see Moscow’s hand in it,” he stated, highlighting the challenges faced by creative communities in Lithuania.
As he looks towards future projects, Kaupinis is developing a film centered on a monastery in provincial Lithuania, reflecting societal divisions and the struggle for unity in a fractured world. “People are very divided and cannot find a common denominator anymore,” he observed, emphasizing the universal relevance of these themes.
With a focus on human stories amidst historical events, Hunger Strike Breakfast stands as a significant cinematic exploration of resistance and resilience in the face of oppression. As Kaupinis continues to engage with both past and present struggles, his work underscores the importance of dialogue and understanding in navigating tumultuous times.
