Of Ticks and Men
A film by Madis Ligema
Cinematographer Taavi Arus Sound Design Rob Montes
Music ATAYA (Fr), Marten Kuningas, Teodor Kuningas, Kuu Ligema
Graphics Helmi Arrak
Narration Aleksei Turovski
Featuring: Ivo Uukkivi, Sander Rebane, Julia Geller, Maria Vikentjeva, Andres Merits, Heino-Mart Laisk, Evald Kotkasulg
Also featuring artwork „Haigem” by Flo Kasearu & Elīna Vītola at Tartu Ülikooli kunstimuuseum.
HD | Stereo | 27 min 40 sec
Produced for Eesti Lood 2025
Production house Davai Laama
Supported by:
Estonian Cultural Endowment
Estonian Film Institute
ERR (Estonian Public Broadcasting)
Tartu Film Fund
A poetic documentary exploring the mysterious world of ticks, their role in the ecosystem, and their unsettling parallels with humanity’s impact on nature.
“Of Ticks and Men” delves into the hidden lives of ticks, one of the most feared yet fascinating creatures of Estonian forests. Through the voices of scientists, such as Julia Geller and Maria Vikentjeva, and individuals whose lives have been deeply affected by tick-borne illnesses, the film uncovers the intricate interplay between these tiny arachnids and their hosts.
At its core, this is not just a story about ticks but a reflective exploration of human behavior. Are we, too, parasitic creatures, relentlessly consuming the world’s resources? Featuring stunning visuals and thought-provoking narratives, director Madis Ligema invites viewers to ponder the delicate balance of nature and our place within it.