Roseville

If there is one thing I'm certain about is that this film deserves  a whole post. It has it all - horror with true story behind it and my current favourite Bulgarian actor Kalin Vrachanski.

There he is - Kalin Vrachanski

The one and only reason Roseville caught my eye in the first place was because of Kalin Vrachanski. Mostly known for his role in the TV series Glass Home, you wouldn't say he'd make that much of an impression. Yes, he became well known, for sure. This is what TV is for. So you wouldn't mind to see a play with him. And another one. How to put it into words? Lets say he blew my mind. The TV had put him in a frame and his immense talent stayed hidden for some time. Seeing Kalin in Of mice and men ( in the role of George) and in The Crow made me believe in young Bulgarian actors once again. His presence on the stage was like a ray of aesthetic sunlight. I always left the theatre feeling like I've witnesed the highest form of art.

         

 So, yes, guess you, lovely reader, get my excitement when I heard  Roseville was on the screens. Already knowing who I am dealing with, I knew it was going to be good. But still ... it was the cinema. No matter how talented you are, you have to be really exceptional to make an impression on the screen. And a horror? Well, lets see it then.

The first thing that strikes about Roseville is the true story behind it. An unsolved police case from the 1980s provokes the creators' imagination and they build their own interpretation of the mysterious event. The facts on which the plot is based are not much. However, they are interesting enough and combined with legends and predictions about the area will leave you thinking about it for a long time. Trust me.

It all starts with the just married couple Nadya and Vassil, who decided to spend their honeymoon in a cabin in the mountains - Roseville (played by Kalin Vrachanski and Lidiya Indjova). Except the keeper - Georgi, (Plamen Manassiev) guests are also two friends of his - Dora (Elena Petrova, also known for her role in Glass Home) and the american Steven (David Chokachi). Just after their arrival strange supernatural things start to happen and the tension between the characters grows as their secrets start emerging. The presence of Vassil unlocks " storm " of unexplained events that will test the sanity of all. Everyone faces the the horror of their own fears and the invisible force that wants to control them, lurking in the dark and quietly knocks on the door to their minds.

As I mentioned this is not a typical psycho thriller. Based on police records  and stories of people from the region of the Elena Balkan and Strandja Mountain associated with local folklore it creates an unique combination of fiction and true facts. Some of these facts are hard to believe, as they directly point at the existence of supernatural forces. Anyway, I don't want to go in much detail, as I will ruin the pleasure of watching the film.

Lastly, about the cast. Simply amazing. Brilliant. If it wasn't for them the story wouldn't be so alive and breathing. An interesting fact is that one half of them were chosen at the minute when the idea of the film was born, and the other two days before the shooting started. When it comes to Kalin Vrachanski, well, he was just as exceptional on the screen as he is on stage.

Roseville is not a film to miss. I will leave you with the trailer and the official website,(http://rosevillemovie.com/#home) if you wish to check something up. 

This is for today. Hope I've succeeded in making you want to see Roseville. Firstly, because is so much worth it and second, because is at the very top of my favourites. It will leave you thinking and doubting in what you believe to be true. It will make you question.

Wish you all a fantastic day.

See you next time! :)

Bits and pieces of Bulgarian films

Hello everyone!

As you know till now I have been talking to you about Scottish films and actors. Well, now to fresh it up a little, the next posts  will be dedicated to films from my home country. Lets be honest - very few are famous outside Bulgaria. However, the one which are, definitely have their reasons why. Here are some fims you may or may not have heard. Just one note: I know that the names of the films or directors will not mean anything if you're not really into the issue. But the purpose of this and the future posts is to show you, dear reader, something unknown. To provoke you to check it.

1. The world is big and salvation lurks around the corner (2010)

Based on Ilija  Trojanow's autobiographic novel, this film is absolutely remarkable, just like the book itself. This does not happen often, you know? I can count on my left hand how many times I've liked a film just as much as the book. By the way, the book is translated in English and German, if you want to check it out before seeing the movie. The world is big and salvation lurks around the corner tells the story of a young man who survived a horrific car accident and cannnot remember his own name. In an attempt to cure him from his amnesia, his quirky grandfather travels to Germany and organizes a spiritual journey for his grandson, back to the country of his birth. While traveling with his grandfather across time and place on a tandem bicycle, the young man begins to reconnect with his forgotten past.

What is more, this film received over 20 festival awards.

2. Zift (2008)

Zift is a black and white film, combining neo-noir, black comedy and socialist retro motifs. Its premiere was on 27 June 2008 at the 30th Moscow International Film Festival, where it won a Silver George for Best Director and the Best Film Prize of the Russian Film Clubs Federation.

Moth, the main character,organizes a robbery out of love and money, but imprisoned before the 9 September coup d'état for a murder he did not commit. He is released from jail in the 1960s to meet the new and unfamiliar reality of socialist Sofia. 

     3. Tilt (2011)

Set in the early 1990s tells the story of four friends who are trying to make money with the dream to open their own bar, called TILT. A chance meeting between Stash  and Becky brings them to a passionate love affair. Suddenly, they are caught illegally distributing porn films. Becky's father, a police colonel, takes charge of the case and threatens them with prison. The only way to avoid going to jail is for Stash and Becky to stop seeing each other. The four friends decide to run away to a small German village. Being poor emigrants, they find themselves in a series of funny and absurd situations. Stash is constantly trying to reach Becky, but with no luck. They finally decide to go back to Bulgaria. Meanwhile, Bulgaria has changed, and so has Becky.

Tilt has been shown in many film festivals in Europe and USA and also won the Best Editing Award at the Woodstock Film Festival. It has also won Best Main Actor, Best Supporting Actor and the Special Jury Award at Golden Rose Film Festival.

4. Love.net (2011)

This one may seem like a typical romantic comedy with happy ending. And it is, I'm not going to lie. Love.net follows several story lines about people, who met the love of their lives. On the internet. Love of first virtual sight. It is funny and heartwarming and definitely worth the watch. Except the Bulgarian cast, the film also features John Lawton. The film has won many Bulgarian awards and several international.

5. The Island (2011)

This film, a co production between Bulgaria and Sweden tells

the story of a Parisian couple(Thure Lindhardt and Laetitia Casta), who decides to spend a vacation on the Black Coast in Bulgaria. When they arrive Sophie discovers that Daneel was born there. They go to an abandoned island with only three inhabitants. The strange atmosphere of the island plays with their behaviour and soon they start questioning their relationship. After a while, Sophie leaves the island, despite Daneel. Moths later, she comes back to Bulgaria only to find Daneel in the strangest place possible.

Although these are just the first five films that came to my mind, they are much more. They have soul. And you can feel it within a second. You will love each and everyone of them without being able to explain exactly why. This is what I call the true love of film. 

If you have enjoyed this post and already determined to know more about Bulgarian cinema, another films you may also like to see are: Ave, Eastern Plays, Sneakers, The Colour of the Chameleon.

See you on the next post, guys!

:)

Film festivals around the world

Film festivals are like a feast of film genres and a great way to boarder your horizon. Lets take a little trip around the world and see what film festivals there are. And if you happen to visit a foreign country because of a festival, what a better reason to explore it.

International Film Festival Rotterdam - Rotterdam, the Netherlands. 

Starting with this one, firstly because it is not too far away. What is more, Rotterdam is not as much a tourist attraction as its neighbour  Amsterdam and you can calmly explore the streets. Of course, Amsterdam is less than an hour away, so you can stop by if you wish. Trust me, you wish! It has a different and typical vibe in which you should dive in. Before I get too much into how I love the city, lets get back on the Rotterdam film festival. It is constantly paving the way for all genres of innovative and thought-provoking cinema. The previous years it has had around 350,000 viewers. Rotterdam attendees are passionate movie-goers, so program directors make a point of stripping down the superfluous aspects of film, like commercials and trailers, for an untarnished viewing experience. 
Not to be missed!

Venice International Film Festival - Venice, Italy

Another city with marvelous architecture and atmosphere you'd love. What is more, the festival in Venice is the oldest in the world, started in 1932.  Every year, the event is held on the island of Lido in Venice. Unlike similarly large film festivals such as Cannes, public attendees are able to purchase passes in advance to the screenings. What a chance - to see the oldest festival in the world in this stunning city.

Hong Kong International Film Festival - Hong Kong, China

Flying away from Europe to the perfect blend of East Asian culture and a thriving global market - Hong Kong. This festival has become one of the largest in the world, and has bridged the gap between Asian cinema and the global film industry.Spread among more than 11 venues all around Hong Kong, including the Space Museum and City Hall, visitors get the chance to witness the latest works while exploring the vibrant city.

There you have it, three cities in different parts of the world, all offering quality films and an experience to remember.

Hollywood world domination

I am 20 years old and still get excited when I go to the cinema to see a film. However, I think we all know that sometimes there is not always much to choose from. Since I moved to Glasgow I had the chance to compare what is on the screens in my hometown Sofia and here. And you know what ? There is not a singe difference. Except of the Bulgarian films, but I don't count them right now.

It is all about sci-fi and action kind of stuff. Normally, I don't have anything against. But you see one,then another one and after a while they do not make a difference.Feels like watching the same film over and over again. And if you want to see something different, you get the chance once a year on film festival.

The Hollywood domination is more than logical, as we live in a commercialized world and everything is about the mass consumption. Everybody will crave to go and see that blockbuster just because it's being talked about .. and advertised, so much advertising.

Currently, the cinema's programme consists of titles like Captain America, Need for speed, The Legend of Hercules, 300. You get the idea. I know it is a matter of taste as well. Yes, these kind of films are not really my thing, although I enjoy them sometimes. But I believe cinemas should be about diversity of genres. Another thing that makes me sad about this domination is that certain actors are being known only for a role like that. Take Hugh Jackman. The first thing that pop into your head was X-Men, wasn't it? This amazingly talented actor who has a wide variety of different roles is known for Wolverine.

You may have seen him in The Prestige with Christian Bale,again mostly know for playing Batman? Or in Woody Allen's Scoop? Both brilliant films and totally different from one anther. Most recently you may have witnessed Hugh Jackman's musical talent in Les Miserables.

So, I will see you guys on the next post where we will see what film festivals around the world can offer.

David Tennant, ladies and gentleman!

So, a few weeks ago I started watching Doctor Who. It was high time. And I am so glad I did. I've got chills! It is fantastic! Then I thought - I will write about it.

David Tennant

As you may know, the fellow up there plays the main character in the TV series. Born in Bathgate, Scotland he has worked as voice and stage actor as well.

Should we go on a short trip around his roles?

Probably the role that first draw attention on him was in the TV mini-series Casanova

Or you may have seen him in Harry Potter ?

What about the stage ? David Tennat describes it as his "default way of being". Two of his title roles in the theatre are Hamlet and Richard II. What is more, Hamlet has a TV adaption.

Richard II

Hamlet

And of course, the Doctor:

David Tennant's childhood dream was to play the Doctor and says he even has his own TARDIS. When Tennant was cast as the Tenth Doctor, he wanted to use his native Scottish accent and become "the first kilted Doctor". However, this was possible only in one of the episodes.
David Tennat has also been voted as "coolest man on TV"

Interesting facts:

• Tennant made his professional acting debut while still in secondary school. When he was 16, he acted in an anti-smoking film made by the Glasgow Health Board which aired on television and was also screened in schools
• He decided to be an actor at the age of three.

 Random quotes:  

'I love characters who are clever and smart, and you have to run to catch up with. I think there's something very appealing and rather heroic in that.'

'I've been quite lucky in that I've managed to tick off a few of my dream roles, really. Beyond that, you wait for the next script to come in that will have the dream role that you don't know exists yet, I suppose.'

'Twitter! It's like being stalked by committee!'

Indeed, he is!

The many faces of Ewan McGregor

Well, hello, everyone!

It high time we talk a little bit about my favourite Scotish actor Ewan McGregor.

First, let me start with a short bio.

Born on the 31 March 1971 in Perth, Scotland, he was encouraged by his parents to leave school and pursue his acting goals rather than be unhappy. Isn't that just awesome? I mean, how often do you hear these stories where the parents didn't approve of their child's ambitions. It a breath of fresh air to hear quite the opposite.

Before we dig into his acting career, here is another fact of his personal life. Ewan is married to the French production deignser Eve Mavrakis and they have four daughters.

Probably the film which first draw attention to Ewan McGregor was Shallow Grave (1994)  for which he won an Empire Award.The film, directed by Danny Boyle tells the story of three friends who discover their new flatmate dead but loaded with cash.

Here we come to the role he is mostly associated with - Renton in Trainspotting (1996) The role which was his breakthrough. Deeply immersed in the Edinburgh drug scene,Renton tries to clean up and get out, despite the allure of the drugs and influence of friends. And, hey,who is the director? Danny Boyle! I absolutely love Trainspotting, it is an amazing movie.

You could not have missed Ewan McGregor as Obi-Wan Kenobi in Star Wars. Actually, as I go through all the films he's been acting I can hardly believe how many and how different they are.

Obi- Wan Kenobi

As Christian in Moulin Rouge with Nicole Kidman

With Hugh Jackman in Deception

The Ghost Writer

With Ryan Gosling in Stay

All of these films are worth the watch. So, so much! It is not only because of Ewan McGregor, they are real quality films as well. And not to mention there are many other films, which have to be written about.(As The Island, Casandra's Dream, The Men Who Stare at Goats, Perfect Sense) It always strikes me when I see an actor in so many roles and yet not a single one reminds of another one.

However, there is one Ewan McGregor film I consider my current favourite: Mike Mills's Beginners (2010)

   

   It tells the story of Oliver, a man reflecting on the life and death of his father, Hal,who came out as gay shortly after his wife's death. During that time Oliver and Hal become closervthan ever.Oliver is also  trying to forge a new romantic relationship with a woman, Anna, dealing with father issues of her own. Inspired by his father's attitude towards the end of his life and their relationship, Oliver decides to pursue a romance with her.

The film is based on the true-life coming out of Mills' father at the age of 75. 

Beginners is a beautiful film, that runs smoothly on the screen and you love every second of it. 
With its simplicity and yet wisdom Beginners is a ray of sunlight that warms your heart.

Here is one of my favourite quotes:

  

'Here. Here is simple and happy. That's what I meant to give you.'

And just because I cannot help myself, the last thing I'll share today is about Arthur the dog, one of the main characters of the film and Oliver's main listener.

 Seriously, this is one of the most adorable dogs on the screen I've seen. This dog can easily win an Oscar or something.









Feels like I went a little too far with this post. But when it comes to Ewan McGregor it is normal to do so. If you haven't seen some of these films, be sure to check them.
See you later!
:)

In search of the Scottish film part 2

As I told you on the previous post, now I will talk about different genres of films.

 For a total contrast from last time, I will start with Filth(2013). Based on Irvine Welsh's novel and starring the Glasgow-born actor James McAvoy, it tells the story of a bipolar, bigoted junkie cop who manipulates and hallucinates his way through the festive season in a bid to secure promotion and win back his wife and daughter. Filth was one of the most talked about films in Scotland in 2013. It is a great psychological thriller, although I wouldn't recommend it to everybody as some people might find it too disturbing.


I cannot believe what I found. A movie with The Proclaimers songs! Sunshine on Leith (2013) is named after band's album and also, Leith is where they are born. The film follows the stories of Davy and Ally, who have to re-learn how to live life in Edinburgh after coming home from serving in Afghanistan. Both struggle to learn to live a life outside the army and to deal with the everyday struggles of family, jobs and relationships.
No, seriously, how I didn't know before this existed? I am so excited!
And now, I couldn't help it -  the one and only 500 miles!

Lastly, I found information about Burns. First, I thought the film existed, but as I dig the internet I came to the conclusion that for a few years now it is in development.Starring Gerard Butler, in the main role, the movie sounds really promising. It goes through Burns life with hectic passion and presents his still living talent. I really hope to see this film one day.

This is it for now, see you soon.
:)

In search of the Scottish film part 1

In the following posts we will discover a few Scottish films and actors.

Starting with the one and only Braveheart(1995). The most Scottish film of all Scottish films. A classic. With Mel Gibson in the role of William Wallace and also a director and producer of the film, it tells the story of  Scottish warrior who led the Scots in the First War of Scottish Independence against King Edward I of England. The story is based on Blind Harry's epic poem The Actes and Deidis of the Illustre and Vallyeant Campioun Schir William Wallace. And here is the main soundtrack:

Next is Brave (2012). Although is an animation and quite different of the pattern, it is pretty nice. It is set in Scotland in a rugged and mythical time. Determined to make her own path in life, Princess Merida defies a custom that brings chaos to her kingdom. Granted one wish, Merida must rely on her bravery and her archery skills to undo a beastly curse. And here is one of the songs in Brave, performed by Mumford and sons

This is it for now. In the next post we will take in a different direction.

See you later!

:)

Scotland as the dream setting location

So here we are, slowly diving into the world of Scottish films.

First of all, lets notice that Scotland has been the setting for many films. The settings for filming in Scotland are undeniably breathtakingly beautiful: from the haunting beauty of Rosslyn Chapel in Roslin, Midlothian which featured in Dan Brown’s Da Vinci Code to the visually stunning Glenfinnan Viaduct in the Highlands which set the backdrop for Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. Also, as a result of the versatility and accessibility of its filming locations, Scotland has provided the setting for a number of high profile films over the last few years including Fast and Furious, Cloud Atlas, The Dark Knight Rises and Skyfall.

Harry Potter

Cloud Atlas

Fast and furious was even filmed exactly in Glasgow as the production was looking to film several chase scenes through a modern city centre and Glasgow fitted the brief perfectly. the wide streets are easily controlled due to the Glasgow grid system, which offers great opportunities for car crashes.

Or another breathtaking scenario from The Dark Knight :

Last but not least, we have Perfect Sense, filmed in Glasgow and starring Ewan McGregor (for who I'll tell you more about later on)

As you can see Scotland is a perfect location for filming as it offers both nature in the highlands and vibrant cities. These films are just a few to have appreciated its value.

See you on the next post, where I will talk to you about Scottish films.