BIX Legacy Revived: Emilio Vėlyvis‘s documentary Unearths Untold Stories of Lithuanian rock Pioneers
Vilnius, Lithuania – A new documentary, BIX – Almost Nirvana, directed by Emilio Vėlyvis, is set to premiere in Lithuanian cinemas on November 14th, offering an unprecedented look into the history of the influential Lithuanian band BIX.The film promises to reveal previously unheard stories and revisit the locations that shaped the group’s rise to prominence three decades ago.
The documentary isn’t simply a nostalgic trip for fans; it’s a cultural rediscovery. BIX, a band that resonated across Lithuania and beyond, represents a pivotal moment in the nation’s musical identity. BIX – Almost Nirvana aims to preserve and share that legacy, offering insights for music enthusiasts and a broader audience interested in the cultural landscape of post-Soviet Europe. The film’s release comes as Lithuania continues to explore and celebrate its artistic heritage.
Vėlyvis and his team embarked on a journey retracing BIX’s footsteps, filming in Germany and the United States – the countries where the band both performed and recorded.This exploration led to reunions with individuals who witnessed BIX’s ascent in the 1990s, adding personal perspectives to the historical narrative.
“Really experienced everything,” remarked Saulius Urbonavičius (Samas), a member of the group, reflecting on the film’s immersive approach.
The production involved a collaborative team including producers Uljana Kim and S. Urbonavičius, cinematographer Petras Skukauskas, artist Kęstutis Svirnelis, costume designer Marija Valeškaitė, and make-up artist Vaida Navickaitė.Funding was provided by the Lithuanian Film Center, Telia, and LRT.
Featured in the film, traveling from Vilnius to Berlin – symbolically, with a pink pig – are band members Saulius Urbonavičius (Samas), gintautas Gascevičius, aurimas Povilaitis, Mindaugas Špokauskas (Špokas), alongside musicologist Darius Užkuraitis, music presenter Dovydas Blavstein, stage colleague Marijonas Mikutavičius, and Martynas Starkus, among others.
