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Sports and Olympic Film Festival SOFF 2024

Sport always wins! Eight dynamic movies will introduce European culture and show that healthy lifestyles, fair play, and friendship are topics that affect each of us.

Story

Since 2021, SOFF, the first Estonian sports and Olympic film festival, has been propagating sports, athletic lifestyles, and the Olympic Movement, all while enriching the cultural life of Tartu. In collaboration with the esteemed Elektriteater, several embassies, and other partners from both Estonia and abroad, this year’s festival will bring to the screen the best of European cinema. Through exciting movies, the viewers will experience themes and Olympic values that transcend the world of sports – honesty, self-improvement, and friendship. Additionally, the cinematic experience will be complemented by discussions with Estonian and European sports experts.

Experience

During four days (22.–25.08), the audience will have a chance to see eight sports movies from different European filmmakers, whose masterful ability of storytelling will capture the attention of every viewer, even those who do not consider themselves to be well-acquainted with the world of sports. The festival aims to carry on the mission of the Estonian Sports and Olympic Museum: to tell the tale of sports and propagate its values and the Olympic Movement among all Estonian citizens, no matter their age. The art of film will aid in reaching an even wider audience, thus encouraging the young and the elderly to think along on important topics. The decreasing physical activity, problems relating to mental health, and fair play – these topics are becoming increasingly relevant. We will show that these are universal themes, taking them under close examination at the festival.

The programme for the year 2024 introduces European sports films and the (sports) culture of different countries at large. Both professionals and armchair sportsmen will be met with the joy of recognition and food for thought. In line with Tartu’s identity as an international student city, the film selection for 2024 is also aimed at those who have gathered here from the many corners of Europe. In addition, 2024 will be the first year where discussions are held to complement the films. Experts from Estonia and abroad help to further interpret what is seen on the screen. Discussions are mainly in English, however, all movies have Estonian and English subtitles.

Impact

By introducing the different facets of sport – physical activity, mental health, honesty, or accessibility – the festival will help to promote healthy lifestyles and introduce sport as an important part of the culture to both domestic and foreign audiences. The programme is the result of close collaboration with different European embassies, bringing European (sports)culture closer to the local viewer.