Since 2021, Zhana Kalinova has been a Programmer of the International and Balkan Competitions of Sofia International Film Festival, where she also is executing the position of Head of the Guest Department and Assistant to the Festival Director. As the Bulgarian festival representative, she is also curating for the Film O’Clock International Festival, which is simultaneously held across seven countries. In 2021, Zhana was honored to serve as a jury member for the section Giornate degli Auttori of the Venice International Film Festival and, in 2022, she was appointed as a juror at the Lisboeta International Short Film Festival. She was part of the production team as one of the three Nominees Coordinators of the European Film Awards in Reykjavik, held by the European Film Academy. Despite her extensive involvement with other film festivals, including Berlin International Film Festival and Lichter Filmfest Frankfurt International, Zhana was actively engaged as an independent film producer, while being based in Portugal. Her work combined the international approach of the foreign directors with the local talent of the crew and cast. Due to her extensive knowledge on fil festivals, currently, she is very often referred to when festival strategies are needed for productions in development.
Very recenty, she became part of the well-known company Coproduction Office as a Festivals & Acquisitions intern, combined with tasks in the production of upcoming projects. Among some of the company’s most recognizable works are TRIANGLE OF SADNESS and THE SQUARE by Ruben Östlund, CLUB ZERO by Jessica Hausner, AURORA by Cristi Puiu, as well as TENDER SON: THE FRANKENSTEIN PROJECT, DELTA and PLEASANT DAYS by Kornél Mundruczó. She holds M.A. in Management of the Arts and Culture and B.A. in Theater, Cinema and Media Studies with subsidiary subject Business Administration.
Zhana is an aspiring young professional in the film industry. As a filmmaker, she considers sustaining cinema as an art form and protecting it from the mainstream subculture as one of the most important values.
The Hat from “My journey to Romania – Letter from Timișoara”
In the face of losing a beloved person, one often seeks various ways of keeping them alive. When inheriting the hat, Christoffer has beautifully preserved the spirit of his father. Moreover, he dedicated himself to creating a movie, delving into the exploration of his father’s legacy. This theme, coupled with its narrative, offers a profound exploration of generation bonds and cultural intersections. This precious relic from another time invites you to explore the landscape of memory and discovery, by laying a rich tapestry of stories waiting to be unveiled. The Hat stand as a living testament to the silent dialogue between generations, sustained trough the visual medium.
For Gheorghe and his family, the art of photography does not limit itself down to a profession category, it is a cherished tradition being passed down the family’s veins. Gheorghe has carefully followed his mother’s footsteps in dedicating himself to the process of playing with light and shadow. The beauty lies in the passion for capturing moments, which differs depending on preferences of each family member- from family portraits to extreme sports. You are being asked to join Gheorghe family’s remarkable journey as they inspire you to history not only through photos but through the captivating language of this tripod.
Alina’s curious eye has led her to use her photo camera to not only witness, but also capture the magic of film production sets and behind the scenes moments around the world. A cinematic odyssey becomes clear via the usage marks on the camera’s case, which speaks of authenticity and dedication. During the dynamic era of the 1990s, this photo camera served Alina more than just a tool; it became one with its owner in becoming a storyteller. Unravelling the intimate lives of actors and the secrets behind cinema’s magic, the photographer managed to narrative a slightly different everyday life. Alina’s story is a proof of a symbiotic relationship between her as a photographer, her lens, and the world of cinema.
Step into the intersection of cinematic history and musical enchantment as we unveil the AMPRO film projector—a treasured possession given a second life by Bogdan. This exhibit, incorporating with the tales of generations, narrates a captivating story rooted in the passion of Bogdan’s great-grandfather. Being a dedicated cinema employee, he transcended the boundaries of his professional life and during his free time he would still be immersed into the cinematic realm. Bogdan’s grand-father seems to have spent numerous occasions of sharing the truly authentic experience of seeing a silent film, being accompanied by piano rhythm. Creating a symphony of memories, the film projector carries the love for film and music for the ones who want to listen and see.
Dana’s visual story provides a getaway from the ordinary paparazzi photography and offers a glimpse into the classy world where the golden age of cinema comes alive. These photographs, far more than mere portraits, encapsulate the personal journey of a soul immersed with the timeless characteristics of the big screen. Dana’s collection traces its origin to childhood, where images of stars like Kim Novak, Marilù Tolo, and Jean Marais have lit the sparks of her passion for cinema. Each portrait serves as a portal, transporting you to an era of elegance and cinematic charm. It is furthermore an exploration of gratitude towards the luminaries who became her muses. These pictures are not static moments frozen in time; they are dynamic tales, each capturing Dana’s profound connection to cinema. This correlation between personal storytelling and the elegance of each star proves the impact of cinematic legends on society and their encouraging power.
Mihaela’s cinematic pursuit became a living proof of the strong influence of childhood experiences. The old pick-up, once a vessel for storytelling, has become a symbolic bridge, connecting the realms of memory and modernity. It is one that links Mihaela’s earliest fascination with narratives to her present-day endeavors, showcasing the timeless power of stories to shape and inspire across generations. This seamless continuity between past and present exemplifies the strong connection between Mihaela and her grandmother. The imagination is limitless, especially when it is provided food for thought. Cinema is namely this imagination and the power of stories to transcend borders and connect numerous people around the world.