Bulgaria Selects ‘Triumph’ as Official Entry for the 97th Academy Awards

Bulgaria has chosen “Triumph,” a film directed by the acclaimed duo Kristina Grozeva and Petar Valchanov, as its official submission for the Best International Feature category at the 97th Academy Awards.

The decision was announced by the National Film Center, marking a significant moment for the country’s film industry. “Triumph” is a Bulgarian-Greek co-production that reflects the collaborative spirit of European cinema.

The film is backed by a diverse array of supporters, including the National Film Center, Bulgarian National Television (BNT), Eurimages, the Greek Film Center, Greek National Television ERT, the Creative Europe MEDIA Program of the European Union, and the American Foundation for Bulgaria.

The screenplay was co-written by Decho Taralezhkov, Kristina Grozeva, and Petar Valchanov, with Grozeva and Valchanov also taking on directorial duties.

Known for their previous works, including the internationally celebrated “The Father” and “Glory,” the directing duo has once again delivered a captivating narrative that combines historical context with a touch of mysticism.

Set in the early 1990s, “Triumph” explores a unique chapter of Bulgaria’s post-communist history. The plot follows a secret task force made up of high-ranking Bulgarian military officers who, guided by a clairvoyant, embark on a mission to unearth a mysterious artifact.

This artifact, according to legend, has the power to bring ultimate triumph to whoever possesses it. The film’s portrayal of the military’s desperate pursuit of this relic serves as a metaphor for the uncertainty and chaos that gripped Eastern Europe during the transition from communism to democracy.

The film features an impressive ensemble cast, including Academy Award-nominated actress Maria Bakalova (“Borat Subsequent Moviefilm”), as well as established Bulgarian talents such as Margita Gosheva, Julian Vergov, Julian Kostov, Stanislav Ganchev, and Ivan Savov.

Their performances bring depth and authenticity to a narrative steeped in historical allegory and personal struggles. Cinematographer Krum Rodríguez captures the era’s visual atmosphere, while composer Teodor Economu’s music underscores the film’s tension and mystique.

The production was spearheaded by Abraxas Film, with Grozeva and Valchanov leading the project. Co-producers include Grail Films, the Greek Film Center, BNT, Greek National Television ERT, Five Oceans, Red Carpet, and Dystopia Films.

“Triumph” has garnered attention not only for its engaging storyline but also for its reflection on a pivotal period in Bulgarian history.

The film’s selection as Bulgaria’s Oscar submission is seen as a strong contender in this year’s competition, given Grozeva and Valchanov’s previous successes on the international stage.

Bulgaria’s film industry has been gaining recognition in recent years, and “Triumph” is expected to continue that trend. The film’s exploration of themes such as power, belief, and the human desire for success resonates beyond its specific historical setting, making it relevant to a global audience.

The Academy Awards, scheduled for March 2025, will provide a global platform for “Triumph” to reach a wider audience. If nominated, it could become a significant milestone for Bulgarian cinema on the world stage, following in the footsteps of the country’s previous nominees.