Maternity Leave

Screenwriter Martyna the first-time mother, in her 30s, stops her career for maternity leave, but when a producer takes an interest in her idea, she tries to manage both: the first-time motherhood and her profession dream to become a director. With her hands 24/7 full with a baby she is trying to work at night, also hoping for help from her own mother. The screenwriter feels desperate because she can not rely on her mother for help as she is struggling with her own diagnosis.

Directed by Lina Mickutė, Maternity Leave leans on a strong ensemble — Laima Akstinaitė, Ieva Kalvaitė — 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 drama titles of 2026.