Bulgaria’s ‘Axis of Life’ Brings Philosophy and Spirituality to IFFI Stage
Maksim Dobromyslov Showcases Russia’s Evolving Cinema Landscape at IFFI
International Co-Production ‘Those Who Whistle After Dark’ Highlights Unity Through Cinema
#IFFIWood, 26 November 2025
At the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) today, filmmakers from different regions of the world came together to celebrate global storytelling and the unifying power of cinema during an engaging press conference.
The event featured the films Transparent Lands from Russia, presented by Executive Producer Maksim Dobromyslov; Axis of Life from Bulgaria, presented by Director Atanas Yordanov; and the Turkish–German–Bulgarian co-production Those Who Whistle After Dark, presented by Director Pınar Yorgancıoğlu.
During the Press Conference Director Atanas Yordanov shared insights into the artistic journey and philosophical foundation behind Axis of Life. He expressed admiration for India, stating that the country’s deep-rooted traditions of spirituality and philosophy were significant inspirations for the film. He also noted that the film’s themes have resonated strongly with younger audiences. Reflecting on Artificial Intelligence, Atanas remarked that while AI may advance rapidly, it can never replicate genuine human emotions or creative depth.
Aspirations Amid Abandonment
Executive Producer Maksim Dobromyslov addressed themes of aspiration and migration explored in Transparent Lands, highlighting people’s shift from smaller towns to major metropolitan cities in search of opportunities. He also drew parallels between India and Russia and underscored Russia’s growing prominence in global cinema, urging audiences worldwide to engage more deeply with contemporary Russian filmmaking.
Yorgancıoğlu on Debut and Global Cinema
Director Pınar Yorgancıoğlu described Those Who Whistle After Dark, her debut feature, as a remarkable product of international collaboration. The film follows a grieving museum manager whose life unravels into an existential crisis after a supernatural encounter. As he searches for meaning, his wife and daughter grapple with their own hidden struggles, and the family is soon confronted by the literal ghosts of their forsaken dreams.
She emphasized that cinema has the power to unite people across borders. Responding to a media query, she expressed interest in filming in India in the future, describing the country as a fascinating creative landscape. She also shared that she enjoys blending multiple genres within a single film.
Despite representing different cultures, all the filmmakers agreed that cinema remains one of the strongest mediums to bring like-minded people together and foster global connections.
Press Conference Link
About IFFI
Born in 1952, the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) stands tall as South Asia’s oldest and largest celebration of cinema. Jointly hosted by the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC), Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India and the Entertainment Society of Goa (ESG), State Government of Goa, the festival has grown into a global cinematic powerhouse—where restored classics meet bold experiments, and legendary maestros share space with fearless first-timers. What makes IFFI truly sparkle is its electric mix—international competitions, cultural showcases, masterclasses, tributes, and the high-energy WAVES Film Bazaar, where ideas, deals and collaborations take flight. Staged against Goa’s stunning coastal backdrop from November 20–28, the 56th edition promises a dazzling spectrum of languages, genres, innovations, and voices—an immersive celebration of India’s creative brilliance on the world stage.
