Lithuania has chosen Laurynas Bareisa's second feature film, 'Drowning Dry,' as its official entry for the Best International Feature category at the 2025 Oscars. The movie, which revolves around two sisters grappling with a life-altering family tragedy, recently garnered critical acclaim by winning the Best Directing award at the 77th Locarno Film Festival.
The ensemble cast of 'Drowning Dry,' featuring Gelmine Glemzaite, Agne Kaktaite, Giedrius Kiela, and Paulius Markevicius, also received recognition with one of the festival's Best Performance awards. Described as 'subtle and haunting' by THR's review, the film showcases Bareisa's unique storytelling approach.
Bareisa, known for his previous work 'Pilgrims,' which won accolades at the Venice Film Festival in 2021, expressed his creative vision for 'Drowning Dry.' The original Lithuanian title, 'Seses,' translates to 'sisters,' while the English title alludes to a medical condition related to underwater accidents.
In an interview, Bareisa explained how the concept of 'dry drowning' serves as a thematic element in the narrative, symbolizing different coping mechanisms for trauma. The film's title, according to the director, encapsulates its essence effectively.
Neringa Kazukauskaite, chairwoman of the Lithuanian Oscar submission commission, praised 'Drowning Dry' for its innovative storytelling, exceptional performances, and artistic quality. She emphasized that the film exemplifies Lithuania's ability to produce original and globally appealing cinema.
Despite Lithuania's consistent submissions in the international Oscar category, the country has yet to secure a nomination. With 'Drowning Dry,' Lithuania aims to showcase its cinematic prowess on the global stage and potentially earn its first Oscar recognition.
