The Varna coastline transforms into the epicenter of an international film event that transcends the traditional boundaries of cinema. Between August 5 and 9, 2025, the fishing village "Karantina" welcomes artists from 19 countries, turning the beach into an open stage for documentary and author film productions.
The organizers, led by Darin Sotirov, define the festival as a "laboratory for young talents" aimed at presenting innovative cinematographic voices outside the mainstream industry. The event is distinguished by an informal atmosphere, where screenings take place under the open sky, accompanied by sea breeze and an authentic background of fishing boats.
A special focus this year is on Bulgarian documentaries that reveal social challenges such as migration, cultural identity, and preservation of local traditions. Participants from Europe, Asia, and Latin America create a bridge between different cultural perspectives, presenting stories of the "common person" in the modern world.
In addition to screenings, the festival organizes creative workshops for young filmmakers who receive opportunities for professional expression. Viewers have direct access to directors, creating a unique interactive environment of dialogue and interaction.
"Karantina" goes beyond the status of an ordinary film review, becoming a cultural phenomenon that promotes the Varna community and its creative potential. The event demonstrates how art can be a powerful instrument for social communication and understanding between different communities.
For local residents, the festival has become a source of pride that attracts international attention to the region. Its accessibility and open format allow everyone to touch authentic film narratives that expand cultural horizons.
The International Film Forum "Karantina" continues to prove that true cinema knows no borders and can touch the hearts of people from different corners of the world, united by the power of a told story.