Introduction to Made in the EU
Heretic has acquired the world’s revenue rights to Bulgarian director Stephan Komandarev’s film, Made in the EU, before its world premiere in the Spotlight area of the Venice Film Festival. The film’s trailer is now available, giving audiences a glimpse into the story.
Plot Overview
Made in the EU follows a woman played by Gergana Pletnyova who works in a clothing factory in rural Bulgaria. When she becomes the first case of Covid in her small town, public demonization begins, and she is turned into a social outcast. The film explores the consequences of fear, misinformation, and social exclusion during the pandemic.
Production and Crew
The film was written by Komandarev and Simeon Ventsissivov. The production team includes Katya Trichkova, Eike Goreczka, Christoph Kukula, Pavel Strnad, Simon Ofenloch, Bekir Yusuf Acekksöz, and Önder Furkan Besikli. The production companies involved are Argo Film from Bulgaria, 42 Film from Germany, Negative from the Czech Republic, and Ikinciyeni Film and ISTOS Film from Turkey.
Funding and Support
The film has received backing from several organizations, including the Bulgarian National Film Center, MDM – Central German media claim, the Czech Audiovisual Fund, ZDF/Arte, Bulgarian National TV, and Trt Sinema. This support has enabled the filmmakers to bring their vision to life and share it with a global audience.
Director’s Previous Work
Stephan Komandarev’s earlier film, Blaga’s Lessons, won the Grand Prix of the Crystal Globe at Karlovy Vary and was an Oscar entry from Bulgaria for 2024. This success has generated interest in his new film, Made in the EU, and audiences are eagerly awaiting its premiere.
