Moldovan Tales
Program / Tickets
Synopsis:
Five stories full of surprises and emotions, taking you through fantastic adventures and unexpected moments. From magical journeys and cultural clashes to strange encounters and life lessons, this short film block will show you Moldova like you've never seen it before.
In Billion, an old man from a forgotten village discovers a surprising way to travel the globe without leaving his yard. Mama Nature brings a hilarious conflict between rural traditions and new dietary trends when a family has to accept that their guests have turned vegan. In What Do You Say?, two young lovers embark on a journey with a suspicious driver who tests their patience. The Poor Man and the Cunning Cat takes us to a village where a man’s greed backfires in an ironic and humorous way. Finally, A Place in the Sun moves us with the story of a talented pianist and his son, fighting to find their place in a harsh but hopeful world.
Screens:
About director:
Evgheni Dudceac
In 2008, graduated from the Faculty of Journalism at the State University of Moldova; 16 years of experience in television as a journalist, scriptwriter, presenter, and editor. In 2017, graduated from the Higher Courses of Film and Television at VGIK, specializing in 'Film Directing and Screenwriting.' As a thesis project, directed the short film Miliard, which won 1st place at the VGIK International Student Festival and participated in 'Kinotavr' in 2018. In 2021, made his feature film debut with Ready or Not. In 2024, graduated from the 'Industry' Film and Television School with a specialization in 'Screenwriting.'
Ioana Vatamanu-Mărgineanu
Since high school, Ioana has been part of the organizing team of the International Documentary Film Festival CRONOGRAF. In 2020, Ioana became editor-presenter at Radio Moldova Youth, then she took over as host of the show "Erudit Cafe" at the Public Television Moldova 1. In 2021, Ioana made her debut in cinema with the short film "What do you think?", which became the first short film to be shown individually in cinemas in Moldova. In 2022, Ioana graduated from the Stockholm School of Economics in Riga. In 2023, Ioana is the author of the touristic series ”I am here” and the intellectual TV-show ”I know you know”.
Natalia Shaufert
Natalia Şaufert is a playwright, screenwriter and director. She is currently a student at New York University's Playwriting Department. Her scripts are inspired by reality, with slightly distorted content that underlines, hyperbolizes and satirizes society's dilemmas and man-made tragic destinies. Natalia holds a bachelor's degree in film and a master's degree in animation film direction from the Academy of Music, Theater and Fine Arts of Moldova. The short film "MOTHER NATURE" won the award for BEST NARRATIVE FILM at Kraków Vegan Film Festival and the award for BEST FEMALE DIRECTOR at Independent Days International Filmfest, Württemberg, Germany.
Adriana Vasilcov
A film director from the Republic of Moldova, known for her works inspired by true stories. She gained international recognition with the feature film “The Man Without a Lifeline,” which won three awards at the Hollywood Florida Film Festival. Her first work as a director was for the short film “The Poor Man and the Cunning Cat.” Adriana Vasilcov is admired for her captivating cinematic style, frequently collaborating with actors from Romania and Moldova.
Vlad Bolgarin
A filmmaker from Chișinău, Moldova, with a Bachelor's degree in Film Directing & Editing (2016) and a Master's in Animation Directing (2018) from the Academy of Music, Theatre, and Fine Arts. He is the founder of VOLT Cinematography and is known for films such as OF, an animation about personal transformation in a grey, polluted city, and Loc Sub Soare, which explores perseverance and hope. His work has been showcased at various international festivals, making him a key figure in Moldovan cinema.