Bulgaria Chooses Valeska Grisebach’s Cannes Jury Prize Winner 'The Dreamed Adventure' for 2027 International Oscar Contention

Bulgaria has officially selected Valeska Grisebach’s intense gangster drama *The Dreamed Adventure* as its entry for the 2027 Academy Awards in the Best International Feature Film category. The film, which earned the prestigious Jury Prize at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival, is set in Svilengrad, a border town in southern Bulgaria near Türkiye and Greece, and explores themes of migration, identity, and survival through a raw, character-driven narrative. Grisebach, a German filmmaker known for her nuanced storytelling and immersive direction, crafted a deeply layered portrait of life on the edge of Europe’s geopolitical frontier. The choice marks a significant moment for Bulgarian cinema, highlighting the country’s growing presence on the international stage. By submitting a film directed by a non-Bulgarian filmmaker but deeply rooted in local realities, the Bulgarian National Film Center underscores the importance of authentic storytelling over national origin. The film’s focus on marginalized communities, combined with its stark cinematography and naturalistic performances, resonates with global audiences and critics alike, positioning it as a strong contender in the Oscar race. With its Cannes recognition and emotional depth, *The Dreamed Adventure* could become Bulgaria’s first-ever nomination in this category. As the 96th Academy Awards approach, all eyes will be on whether this gritty, human-centered drama can break through the international competition. Its journey from Svilengrad to Hollywood could signal a new era for Balkan cinema on the world’s biggest stage.