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Deep within the woods of southern Estonia, a group of women come together to seek healing and shelter in the darkness of a traditional smoke sauna. Shot over five years, the film shows the seasons pass and, as snow melts into spring, the cycle of nature becomes a backdrop to the inner sanctuary of the women. Embraced by the warmth and smoke, sweat and tears, they support and hold one another as they share their innermost secrets and experiences, washing away the trauma and sweating the hurt out of their bodies. With stunning cinematography and a sensitive lens, director Anna Hints and the sisterhood of women give us a gift as they allow us into their most personal space of vulnerability and healing, showing us what the power of sisterhood can invoke. Heather Haynes

This documentary includes challenging and/or triggering subject matter. Our Active Listeners are available if you’d like to speak with someone after viewing the film. All conversations with Active Listeners are confidential.

Credits

  • Director(s)

    • Anna Hints
  • Producer(s)

    • Marianne Ostrat
    • Juliette Cazanave
    • Hlín Jóhannesdóttir
  • Writer(s)

    • Anna Hints
  • Editor(s)

    • Hendrik Mägar
    • Tushar Prakash
    • Martin Männik
    • Qutaiba Barhamji
    • Anna Hints
  • Cinematography

    • Ants Tammik
  • Composer

    • Edvard Egilsson
  • Sound

    • Huldar Freyr Arnarson

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