Noted Estonian actress Hilje Murel, born on December 17, 1975, in the picturesque town of Võru, situated in the charming Võru County, has established herself as a prominent figure in the world of Estonian stage, film, and television. Her journey in the world of acting began after she graduated from the esteemed EMA Higher Drama School in 1998, where she had the privilege of learning alongside a talented group of fellow students, including renowned actors such as Tiit Sukk, Veikko Täär, Harriet Toompere, Andero Ermel, Liina Vahtrik, and Jan Uuspõld.
Murel's cinematic journey commenced with a leading role in the 1998 dramatic short film "Libarebased ja kooljad", skillfully directed by the accomplished Rainer Sarnet, whose creative vision was inspired by the renowned collection of short stories penned by the illustrious Qing dynasty Chinese writer, Pu Songling. This poignant film, a testament to the artistic collaboration between Eesti Televisioon (ETV) and Eesti Telefilm, marked the beginning of Murel's illustrious career in the world of film.
In the year 2003, the talented actress made her mark in the world of comedy by appearing in the cinematic masterpiece "Vanad ja kobedad saavad jalad alla", a film masterfully directed by Rando Pettai and written by the ingenious Peep Pedmanson. This cinematic endeavor was based on the highly acclaimed Estonian television comedy series of the same name, "Vanad ja kobedad", which had already garnered a significant following among audiences.
Following her successful foray into comedy, the actress took on a dramatic role in the 2004 short film "Kurat tuleb sauna", a cinematic work that showcased her impressive range as an actress. Directed by the skilled Andres Maimik, this dramatic short film was inspired by the iconic leitmotif "Saunakuuldemängu" of the renowned Estonian writer Mati Unt, a literary figure known for his unique storytelling style and captivating narratives.
Murel's extensive repertoire continued to expand as she took on roles in the 2008 biographical feature film Taarka, a cinematic masterpiece directed by the acclaimed Ain Mäeots, based on the captivating play of the same name penned by the esteemed Kauksi Ülle. This poignant film tells the heart-wrenching story of Seto folk singer Hilana Taarka, whose life was marked by numerous challenges. Notably, Taarka holds the distinction of being the first feature-length film in the Seto dialect, garnering widespread recognition and critical acclaim. In 2008, the film won the prestigious Estonian Cultural Endowment Debut Award, a testament to its innovative storytelling and cultural significance.
In the year 2013, the talented actress took on the memorable role of Silvi Säinas in the hilarious and action-packed comedy-adventure film Seenelkäik, skillfully directed by the renowned Estonian filmmaker Toomas Hussar.
This cinematic masterpiece was chosen as the Estonian entry for the prestigious Best Foreign Language Oscar category at the 85th Academy Awards, a testament to its exceptional quality and widespread acclaim.
In addition to her notable performance in Seenelkäik, Murel also appeared in the heartwarming family-fantasy drama Väikelinna detektiivid ja valge daami saladus, masterfully directed by the accomplished Estonian filmmaker René Vilbre and penned by the talented scriptwriter Mikhel Ulman.
Notable film appearances of the talented actress include a minor role in the 2016 melodrama "Perekonnavaled", a cinematic masterpiece directed by the esteemed Valentin Kuik and Manfred Vainokivi.
In 2018, Murel took on a supporting role in the powerful drama "Võta või jäta", brought to life by the visionary Liina Triškina-Vanhatalo. This critically acclaimed film showcased her impressive range as a performer.
Fast forward to 2020, Murel appeared in the poignant coming-of-age period drama "Vee peal", masterfully directed by the renowned Peeter Simm. This role further cemented her status as a talented and versatile actress in the Estonian film industry.
Murel, a talented individual, has not only made a name for herself in the world of film, but has also demonstrated her versatility by lending her voice to a character in the animated film Sipsik.
