Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival Marks 30 Years with Overhaul

The Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival (PÖFF) is marking its 30th edition with leadership changes and a renewed focus on artistic excellence, talent development, and international collaboration. The anniversary also sees a transition within Just Film, the festival’s youth-focused sub-festival.

Leadership Appointments

Triin Tramberg has been appointed as the new Artistic Director of PÖFF. Tiina Lokk, the longtime Festival Director, will transition to focus on the festival’s strategic and developmental direction, remaining CEO. Tramberg has been involved with PÖFF for over 15 years, previously holding roles such as programme assistant and programme coordinator. She is also the founder and manager of Script Pool, an initiative supporting films that have achieved recognition at major international film festivals.

Dhanushka Gunathilake has been appointed as Head of Discovery Campus, PÖFF’s talent and industry platform. Gunathilake is an award-winning cinematographer and festival professional, and the founder of Sri Lanka’s first state-sponsored film school. He has worked at PÖFF in various roles, including TV host, Q&A moderator, and Project Manager at Discovery Campus.

Malaika Bova will take over as First Feature Competition Curator. Bova is an international film curator and programmer with over 20 years of experience, previously serving as Artistic Director of the Raindance Film Festival and currently acting as a UK scout for PÖFF.

Just Film Programme Director Change

Jan-Joonas Pevkur has been appointed as the new Programme Director of Just Film, following several years of involvement in film selection and event production for the children’s programme. Mikk Granström will continue as Administrative Manager of the Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival, ensuring continuity within the Just Film team.

Festival Details

The 30th edition of PÖFF will take place from November 6-22, 2026. Industry@Tallinn & Baltic Event’s 25th edition will run from November 9-20, 2026. PÖFF is Northern Europe’s only FIAPF-accredited competitive feature film festival and includes the sub-festivals Just Film and PÖFF Shorts. It is one of the largest film festivals in Northern Europe and a significant regional industry platform.

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