Bulgaria, with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and unique cultural heritage, has inspired numerous films that capture the essence of this Balkan nation. This curated selection of 10 films provides an insightful journey into Bulgaria's past and present, showcasing its cinematic contributions to the world. From historical dramas to contemporary tales, these movies offer a window into the Bulgarian soul, making them invaluable for anyone interested in exploring this fascinating country through the lens of cinema.

The Lesson (2014)
Description: A drama about a school teacher in Bulgaria who faces moral dilemmas when she tries to recover stolen money from her students.
Fact: The film was selected as the Bulgarian entry for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 88th Academy Awards.


The Goat Horn (1972)
Description: This film is a poignant depiction of the harsh life in the Bulgarian mountains during the early 20th century, focusing on the themes of revenge and justice.
Fact: The film was Bulgaria's submission for the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film in


The World is Big and Salvation Lurks Around the Corner (2008)
Description: A road movie that follows a Bulgarian family's journey to Germany, exploring themes of memory loss, identity, and the search for a new home.
Fact: It won the Audience Award at the 2008 Sundance Film Festival.


Eastern Plays (2009)
Description: This film intertwines the lives of two brothers in modern-day Sofia, highlighting the cultural clash between East and West.
Fact: It was Bulgaria's entry for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 82nd Academy Awards.


The Border (2011)
Description: Set during the Cold War, this film explores the life of a border guard and the complexities of human connections across the Iron Curtain.
Fact: It was Bulgaria's submission for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 84th Academy Awards.


The Colour of the Chameleon (2012)
Description: A satirical look at Bulgarian society through the eyes of a writer who plagiarizes his work, leading to unexpected consequences.
Fact: The film won the Grand Prix at the 2013 Sofia International Film Festival.


Avé (2011)
Description: A coming-of-age story about a teenage girl hitchhiking across Bulgaria, capturing the spirit of youth and freedom.
Fact: It was Bulgaria's entry for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 84th Academy Awards.


The Sinking of Sozopol (2014)
Description: This film delves into the lives of two brothers in a small Bulgarian town, exploring themes of loss, memory, and reconciliation.
Fact: It was screened in the Panorama section at the 64th Berlin International Film Festival.


The Judgment (2014)
Description: A courtroom drama that examines the judicial system in Bulgaria, focusing on a judge's struggle with her conscience.
Fact: The film was Bulgaria's submission for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 87th Academy Awards.


Glory (2016)
Description: Set in the 1990s, this film portrays the life of a former military pilot in post-communist Bulgaria, reflecting on the country's transition.
Fact: It won the Crystal Globe at the 51st Karlovy Vary International Film Festival.
