Bulgarian drama “Tarika”⁢ debuts at London Film‍ Festival

A new cinematic gem from Milko Lazarov

The London Film ‌Festival ‍recently showcased the world ​premiere of the Bulgarian drama “Tarika”, directed by the acclaimed ⁢Milko Lazarov. Known for his previous ‍works⁢ like “Ága,”⁢ which premiered at the Berlin Film Festival, Lazarov ‍continues to captivate audiences with⁤ his unique⁣ storytelling and⁢ visual style.

A tale of isolation⁣ and resilience

“Tarika” centers on the ‍lives of⁣ Ali and his daughter, Tarika, who ‍live in seclusion in ⁤rural Bulgaria.‌ Tarika suffers from a rare⁢ bone condition known as “butterfly wings,” inherited ⁤from her ‌mother. This condition has long been a source of superstition in their ‍village. Ali, determined to protect⁢ his daughter,⁢ rejects invasive medical procedures,‍ even ‌as the village’s intolerance grows increasingly dangerous.

Meet the​ cast

The film features Vesela Valcheva as ⁢Tarika, Zachary Baharov as Ali, and Ivan Savov as the village mayor.‌ Their performances bring depth and authenticity to this poignant story.

Behind the scenes

The screenplay for “Tarika” was crafted by Lazarov, ‌Ekaterina Churilova, and Simeon Ventsislavov. The⁤ film’s stunning visuals are the​ work of cinematographer ⁤Kaloyan Bozhilov. The lead producer is Veselka ‍Kiryakova from Bulgaria’s Red Carpet, with co-producers Eike Goreczka and Christoph Kukula ⁢from Germany’s 42film, and Alexander Dumreicher-Ivanceanu and Bady Minck from Amour Fou in Luxembourg. The film is being distributed by ⁣Films Boutique.

Lazarov’s cinematic⁤ journey

Milko‍ Lazarov’s first feature, “Alienation” ⁣(2013), premiered at Venice Days⁣ and won⁣ two awards: special mention from Europa Cinemas ⁣Label ⁤and best young director from Fedeora. His⁢ second feature, ​ “Ága” (2018), premiered in ⁢the main competition of the Berlin ⁢Film Festival and garnered over 40 awards, including the Grand Prix for best film at Fajr and the Heart of‍ Sarajevo for best film at Sarajevo.

An​ interview with Milko Lazarov

What inspired “Tarika”?

Lazarov shares‍ that ‌his curiosity to answer⁢ difficult questions and his desire to express humanity were the driving forces behind‌ “Tarika.” He believes that art is a powerful ally of ⁤beauty and justice, and this film⁢ is a testament to that belief.

Influence of magic realism

Lazarov acknowledges the influence of magic ​realist writers like Gabriel​ García Márquez. He ⁣recalls traveling to Colombia to make a documentary about Márquez’s “A ⁣Hundred Years of Solitude,” a novel that​ left​ a lasting impression on him. The interplay between the visible ⁤and the invisible in Márquez’s⁣ work ‍resonates in “Tarika.”

Folk tales ⁤and ⁢fairy tales

From the outset, Lazarov and his team aimed to create‌ a⁢ tale of a magical girl. The film’s structure ​and aesthetic are‌ deeply rooted in the world of fairy tales, influencing everything ​from the narrative to the actors’ performances.

The​ metaphor⁣ of the border fence

The ⁢erection of a border fence in the film serves as a powerful metaphor. Lazarov explains that⁣ it symbolizes the division and control of people’s spirits in⁣ the age of globalization. The film critiques the ways in which societies are divided‌ and manipulated.

The role of cinematography

Lazarov emphasizes the importance of cinematography ‌in creating a fictional world.​ He ⁣believes that ‍the visual aesthetic of a film is as crucial as its narrative, and in “Tarika,” the cinematography plays a key role in conveying the film’s message.

Parallels to contemporary Bulgaria

Lazarov notes that the‌ atmosphere of suspicion⁣ and superstition in the film mirrors the current political and social climate ‍in ​Bulgaria and around the world. He warns of the dangers‌ of division and ⁣the erosion of basic ​human rights, ‌urging viewers to ⁣remember and learn from history.

Casting Tarika

When asked ‌about the qualities he sought in the actress who played‍ Tarika, Lazarov’s⁤ answer is simple: talent.‍ He believes⁤ that talent is the most valuable quality in art, and Vesela ⁢Valcheva’s performance in “Tarika” is a testament ​to that ⁤belief.

Watch the trailer

For a glimpse into the world​ of “Tarika,”​ watch the trailer and⁣ explore the ⁢film’s information page.

Final⁤ thoughts

“Tarika” is a powerful and moving film​ that explores‍ themes ‌of isolation, resilience, and the human spirit. Milko‍ Lazarov’s masterful direction and the outstanding performances of the cast make this a must-watch for cinema enthusiasts. As the film continues‌ to make its mark on the festival circuit, it⁤ is⁢ sure​ to leave a‌ lasting impression on audiences ‌worldwide.