Sophie Sooäär

Sophie Sooäär (September 27, 1914 – March 14, 1996) was a celebrated Estonian actress, singer, and dancer, recognized for her impactful contributions to stage, television, and film throughout her career.

Sooäär made her cinematic debut in 1955 with the musical concert film "Kui saabub õhtu," directed by Aleksandr Mandrõkin. The film highlighted a variety of Estonian performers, featuring Sooäär in the role of Linda, the wife of Kalev and mother of the legendary giant Kalevipoeg. This production was part of a ballet composed by Eugen Kapp, rooted in Estonian folklore, and choreographed by notable ballet masters Ida Urbel and Udo Väljaots.

Her versatility shone in 1968 when she starred in the black-and-white comedy film "Mehed ei nuta," directed by Sulev Nõmmik and written by Nõmmik and Enn Vetemaa. In this widely-loved film, she portrayed a farmhouse nurse who assists a group of insomniacs subjected to an arduous therapy retreat on a secluded island, which has become a staple of Estonian television.

In 1970, she took on the role of Maria in the drama "Tuulevaikus," directed by Veljo Käsper, based on Einar Maasik's novel "Tuisu Taavi seitse päeva." The following year, she played Donna Laura in "Don Juan Tallinnas," a musical comedy directed by Arvo Kruusement, which creatively explored themes of identity and deception.

Sooäär's final film appearance came in 1974 with a minor role in Veljo Käsper's youth adventure film "Ohtlikud mängud," marking the end of a distinguished career in the arts.