Alief has secured international rights for 'Dice-Ching-O-Mat', a sci-fi film directed by Kristijonas Vildziunas, ahead of its Warsaw Film Festival premiere.
U.K.-French sales outfit Alief has announced it has acquired international distribution rights (excluding the Baltics and Poland) to the upcoming Lithuanian sci-fi drama Dice-Ching-O-Mat. The announcement was made on September 17, 2026, coinciding with the film's competitive debut at the Warsaw International Film Festival.
Dice-Ching-O-Mat is written and directed by Lithuanian filmmaker Kristijonas Vildziunas, known for his acclaimed works that have premiered at prominent film festivals like Venice and Cannes. Among his previous notable films are The Lease and You Am I, which have contributed to Lithuania's reputation on the global cinematic stage. Vildziunas has also been a two-time Oscar nominee, strengthening the film's credibility as it prepares for international audiences.
The film's production is led by producer Uljana Kim, recognized for her contributions to Lithuanian cinema and recipient of the Eurimages International Co-Production Award in 2023. Dice-Ching-O-Mat, featuring an intricate set design, marks a significant achievement as one of the most complex visual constructs built in Lithuania.
The narrative centers on Vilis, portrayed by actor Dainus Gavenonis, who finds himself trapped in a surreal Cube, reminiscent of an old Soviet elevator. His journey within this claustrophobic space becomes a metaphor for navigating personal identity and family connections, particularly in the context of emotional isolation caused by the pandemic. The script combines elements of science fiction with profound themes of transformation and reconnection, appealing to viewers interested in emotionally resonant storytelling.
The construction of the Cube itself presented substantial production challenges. Alief's Kim noted that creating such a complex set within a limited budget of €1.5 million ($1.7 million) was a significant undertaking. The innovative design involved building two identical Cube sets to facilitate dynamic filmmaking while maintaining visual coherence throughout the narrative.
With its world premiere at the Warsaw International Film Festival, Dice-Ching-O-Mat is expected to attract film enthusiasts and industry professionals eager to explore cutting-edge narratives with a visual flair. This film's unique blend of sci-fi elements with emotionally charged family drama positions it well for festival circuits and international distribution, promising to engage diverse audiences while showcasing Lithuania's artistic talent.
The acquisition by Alief highlights a growing interest in international co-productions and the unique storytelling capabilities emerging from Eastern European cinema. As Dice-Ching-O-Mat gears up for its festival debut, its reception could influence the trajectory of future Lithuanian films in the global market, potentially leading to expanded collaborations and opportunities for filmmakers like Vildziunas.
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