u.Q.

Dutch Premiere

Get ready for a captivating ride with the life and music of Uku Kuut, from the Soviet Union to the bright lights of Los Angeles and beyond! The opening film of our festival is a hypnotizing music docudrama that follows the journey of Estonian mother-son pop duo Marju and Uku Kuut.

Although Marju Kuut is a household name in Estonia, Uku Kuut’s fame might not reach far beyond the country’s borders. But don’t be fooled – his story and artistry are nothing short of a phenomenon. The film takes us on a delirious ride from Marju’s days as a national jazz-pop star in the Soviet era to their lives in Sweden and California, where they made torrid synthetic funk music together.

The film covers it all: from the KGB and eccentricity galore, to emotional dependency, the American Dream, and the temptation of easy money. It’s a Greek comedy captured on 8mm, VHS and BETA tape, and it’s a must-see for anyone looking for a wild and unforgettable experience at our festival. You may not have heard of Uku Kuut before, but after watching this film, you’ll surely be a fan!

u.Q. is our opening film and will be shown on the opening night of the festival! After the film, at 21:30h (in the Melkweg Upstairs room), there will be a Q&A with director Ivar Murd and producer Margus Ounapuu, followed by a concert by Stippenlift. Tickets for this film in the cinema room also grant access to the Q&A and concert in the Upstairs room.