Kircheninneres

German artist Adolf Menzel's unfinished painting Kircheninneres comes to life in a vision of a post-apocalyptic world where modern society is left in ruins and the only way to survive is to dominate. The plot of the film focuses on two gangs of young men fighting over a church that has been transformed into a shelter. The protagonist, a member of one of the gangs, tries to navigate between the desire to survive and his humanity. He seeks to protect the one he loves, he does not want to betray his friends, and therefore he does not withdraw from the fight. When the gangs clash in a brutal battle, the wounded hero is rescued by his beloved at the risk of his own life. The hero's friends win the battle, but instead of joyful bells, the thunder of fighter jets rings out, blending in with the brushstrokes of the unfinished painting. The lovers fail to protect each other from their inevitable fate.

Directed by Mindaugas Docaitis, Kircheninneres leans on a strong ensemble — Petras Šimonis, Paulina Taujanskaitė, Aidas Jurgaitis — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about screen titles of 2015.