site.btaThe Film Bet Examines the Destructive Nature of Power at the Golden Rose Festival

The film “Bet” (Zalog) was presented by director Svetoslav Ovcharov in the competition programme of the Golden Rose Festival in Varna, organizers said on Monday. 

Unlike his previous documentaries centered on historical figures, Ovcharov explained that this film serves as a parable about friendship and the destructive nature of power.

Ovcharov explained that the concept for “Bet” originated in the 1990s with director Zako Heskiya, a close friend. 

Heskiya suggested Ovcharov write a screenplay about the 1890 conspiracy against the Bulgarian Prince, recognizing Ovcharov's expertise in this historical period. Heskiya would check in daily to ensure progress on the script. Ovcharov noted that in Bulgaria, it is typical for film projects to take years to complete; in this case, the process took thirty years. “It was intended for release at this time,” Ovcharov said.

He added that in the 1990s, he and Heskiya believed the film could represent Bulgaria’s attempts to distance itself from Russia’s influence, but he did not expect the film to remain relevant three decades later. “This does not please me, but it is a fact,” he said.

When asked if he meant to caricature the characters, Ovcharov acknowledged that the idea had crossed his mind. “Tragedy and baseness often coexist. Although not at the forefront, our purpose remains to depict a tragic story, as two friends, almost like brothers, are forced to kill each other.”

That does not mean they are immune to their own emotions or daily realities. In feature films and documentaries alike, real people appear on screen, complete with their desires and shortcomings. If you look closely, you will find many such stories woven into the arcs of all three main characters, the director said.

Ovcharov explained that his approach with the cast was to support the actors while allowing them creative freedom. “They are dedicated and resilient. Despite the bitter cold during filming, no one complained,” he said. The cast features Romanian actress Ofelia Popii and Bulgarian actors Asen Blatechki, Zahari Baharov, Deyan Donkov, Valentin Ganev, Stefan Mavrodiev, Ivan Savov, Malin Krastev, and Gergana Pletnyova.

Producer Svetla Tsotsorkova noted that Ovcharov often says every historical film will be his last, but he continues to make them. She acknowledged that these productions are costly and challenging to shoot. However, her experiences as a student in the 1990s, when resources were limited, taught her how to create with minimal means. “Films are made with friends,” she said, quoting her mentor Georgi Dyulgerov.

Set designer Mira Kalanova was commended for her authentic recreation of Sofia during that period, when it was still a large village, without idealizing it. Ovcharov maintains that the world at that time was just as harsh as it is today.

As previously reported, "Bet" launched this year's Sofia Film Fest.