Vytautas Katkus Debuts 'The Visitor' at Karlovy Vary Festival

Vytautas Katkus, a rising Lithuanian filmmaker, has made his feature directorial debut with 'The Visitor,' which premiered at the prestigious Karlovy Vary International Film Festival (KVIFF) in July 2025. The film, co-written with Marija Kavtaradze and edited by Laurynas Bareiša, is competing for the Crystal Globe award, showcasing a deep cinematic exploration of solitude.

Set against the backdrop of Lithuania, 'The Visitor' follows Danielius, a new father in his mid-30s, who travels back to his homeland from Norway to sell his parents' flat after their passing. As he reconnects with old friends, he grapples with feelings of isolation and nostalgia, choosing to linger in Lithuania rather than return to his family, thereby allowing himself to be guided by his solitude. Katkus describes the film as a meditation on the human condition, highlighting the fragility of the soul and the universal experience of loneliness.

The KVIFF, now in its 59th year, is renowned for its focus on independent and arthouse cinema, making the selection of 'The Visitor' a significant milestone for Katkus and Lithuanian cinema as a whole. The festival's website emphasizes the film's thematic depth, stating, “Time seems to have stopped completely in a world which illuminates the fragility of the human soul.” The cast features notable Lithuanian actors Darius Šilėnas, Vismantė Ruzgaitė, and Arvydas Dapšys.

Born in 1991, Katkus has earned recognition in the film industry, winning multiple awards for his work as a director of photography, including the Best Young Director of Photography from the Lithuanian Association of Directors of Photography. His previous short films, such as 'Collective Gardens' and 'Cherries,' have been showcased at Cannes and Venice, respectively, further establishing his reputation in the international film community.

In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Katkus reflected on the evolution of 'The Visitor,' explaining that the narrative emerged from his personal experiences and previous short films. He and Kavtaradze initially planned to create three distinct stories but decided to focus on a singular narrative that encapsulated their exploration of solitude, emphasizing its importance in personal growth. Katkus articulates, “We wanted to show that sometimes you need to embrace solitude and understand how to enjoy it.”

The film's cinematography, crafted by Katkus himself, features unconventional angles and a documentary-like style. This approach allows for a more organic interaction between actors and their environment, capturing moments that resonate with authenticity. Katkus believes that this method enhances the emotional depth of the film, stating, “I want to give the actors freedom, and I try to adjust to them rather than impose strict guidelines.”

With 'The Visitor' receiving positive feedback at KVIFF, Katkus is optimistic about the film's future and his own journey as a filmmaker. He hints at ongoing projects, collaborating again with Kavtaradze, and explores new narratives that delve into similar themes of human experience. As the festival unfolds, Katkus remains a pivotal figure in the Lithuanian film scene, poised to leave a lasting impact on global cinema.

As 'The Visitor' continues to garner attention, its exploration of solitude and emotional complexity may resonate with audiences worldwide, further solidifying Katkus's place among the contemporary greats in filmmaking.