The Berlinale Series Market Selects pick “My Dear Mother” may begin with a brutal murder, but according to writer Raoul Suvi, it’s more about a unique love story than the crime itself.
In this Estonian-Ukrainian six-episode show, produced by Zolba Productions in collaboration with Ukraine’s Film.UA Group, the audience is placed in the roles of a judge and a journalist. They are tasked with unraveling the story of a girl accused of killing her own mother.
As the plot unfolds, it becomes clear that the institutions, including the girl’s family, have failed to uphold their values. The show aims to shed light on the often unnoticed injustices and struggles that exist in our society.
Director Doris Tääker felt it was important to depict violence on screen to truly understand the plight of the main character, a young woman who descends into addiction and prostitution. The realistic portrayal of violence serves to highlight the ongoing trauma experienced by the victim.
The show’s lead, Doris Tislar, plays Alina, a young woman caught in a cycle of despair and abuse. Her complex relationship with her mother, Renata, played by Elina Reinold, serves as the emotional core of the series.
Producer Toomas Ili acknowledges that darker themes like those explored in “My Dear Mother” may not be as commercially appealing as lighter genres, but he believes in the importance of addressing such impactful topics.
The collaboration between Zolba Productions and Film.UA Group was crucial for the success of the project, which also involved digitally de-aging the main actors. This technically demanding task was expertly handled by Film.UA’s production division, known for their innovative AI technologies.
CEO Victoria Yarmoshchuk praises the power of international collaboration and technological innovation in shaping the series. She believes that bold creative visions and cross-border partnerships can result in truly impactful content.
“My Dear Mother” stands out not only for its compelling storytelling but also for its high-quality production standards. The selection for Berlinale Series Market Selects is a testament to the dedication and expertise of the team behind the show.
