"We are obliged to do everything possible to help and support the Ukrainian film industry at this difficult time, but even so more Ukrainian people," said Tiina Lokk, Festival Director of PÖFF.

For the second year running, PÖFF and Industry@Tallinn &; Baltic Event will participate in the “Goes to Cannes” showcase at the Marché du Film, aiming to present 5 Ukrainian projects in post-production. The aim is to help Ukrainian films where production has been interrupted by the war find their way to the international market.

At the same time, PÖFF, together with the telecommunications company and key festival sponsor Elisa, will present a special program of Ukrainian films to local audiences on their web cinema platform, during which all viewers will be able to support Ukraine with financial donations.

Last week, together with the wider Estonian film industry, the festival signed an open letter condemning the war. The full text is available at https://poff.ee/en/news/estonian-film-industry-calls-for-boycott-of-films-from-warring-russia-and-belarus/. In line with this commitment, state-supported films from Russia and Belarus will not be considered for the 26th edition of PÖFF this November 11-27 and, similarly, such projects will not be accepted at this year's Industry@Tallinn &; Baltic Event.

"We only support and leave the door open for independent filmmakers whose films represent different values from official doctrine," Lokk added.

PÖFF calls on all people to help Ukraine.