‘Black Money for White Nights’ Offers ‘Tragicomic Meditation’ on ‘Moral Erosion’ at Heart of Post-Communist Bulgarian Life

Quantify is set to launch sales for the Bulgarian horror film 'Samodiva' at the upcoming AFM, featuring notable actors Jack Parr and Sophie Craig. This film, currently in production at Nu Boyana Studios, showcases a promising collaboration between Quantify and Film Forge Media. Directed by Giles Alderson, 'Samodiva' is generating excitement in the film industry, highlighting the growing interest in international horror films.

The Thessaloniki Film Festival's Agora industry arm is thriving as it marks a year after its 20th anniversary, blending tradition with innovation to support filmmakers from Southeastern Europe and beyond. This approach not only enhances the festival's significance in the region but also showcases the rich cultural heritage of Greece, making it a vital platform for creative talents.

Tonislav Hristov's documentary 'Truth or Dare' dives into the impact of fake news on voters in Bulgaria, particularly highlighting the influence of misinformation on democracy. By addressing these pressing issues, Hristov not only sheds light on the challenges faced by society but also emphasizes the importance of informed decision-making in elections. This film is crucial as it encourages viewers to critically evaluate the information they consume, ultimately fostering a healthier democratic process.

FilmSharks has made a significant move by acquiring the world sales rights to 'The Convent,' a film that explores a unique and dark narrative set in a convent in southern Spain. This acquisition highlights the growing interest in unconventional stories within the film industry, and it could pave the way for more innovative projects to gain international attention. Additionally, the news of 'Guns & Moses' being released in the U.S. and the Canadian indie feature 'Nobody Sees Me Like You Do' adds to the excitement, showcasing a diverse range of films that are capturing audiences' imaginations.

Comcast has reported a strong quarterly performance, surpassing Wall Street expectations, largely driven by a 19% revenue growth in its Theme Parks division, thanks to the success of Epic Universe. Despite tough comparisons to last year's Paris Olympics, the company has shown resilience with steady advertising revenue from Peacock and a reduction in domestic broadband losses, alongside an increase in wireless customers. This positive trend highlights Comcast's ability to adapt and thrive in a competitive market, making it a significant player in the entertainment and telecommunications sectors.

Fox Corp. has exceeded Wall Street's expectations in its fiscal first quarter, reporting adjusted earnings per share of $1.51 and total revenue of $3.7 billion, surpassing analysts' predictions of $1.06 per share and $3.58 billion in revenue. This strong performance is particularly noteworthy given the sluggish growth in the advertising sector, which is crucial for the company's overall success. This news is significant as it highlights Fox's resilience and ability to perform well even in challenging market conditions.

Fox Corporation reported a 5% increase in revenue for its first fiscal quarter, amounting to $174 million, driven by higher cash from advertising and distribution. However, the company's profit took a hit due to rising operating expenses, resulting in a net income of $599 million for shareholders. This news highlights the ongoing challenges companies face in balancing revenue growth with increasing costs, a situation that could impact future financial strategies.

Nexstar Media Group has announced the extension of CEO Perry Sook's contract until 2029, a move that reflects confidence in his leadership as the company aims for further growth. With over 200 stations across 116 markets, Sook's continued guidance is crucial as Nexstar seeks to expand its influence in the broadcasting industry. This decision not only secures stability at the top but also signals Nexstar's ambition to enhance its market presence, which is significant for both investors and viewers.

The acclaimed Bulgarian directing duo Kristina Grozeva and Petar Valchanov are set to release their latest film, 'Black Money for White Nights,' which explores the absurdities of life in post-communist Bulgaria through the story of a couple who fall victim to a travel scam. This film, currently in post-production, promises to be a tragicomic reflection on moral erosion, making it a significant addition to contemporary cinema. Its presentation at the Thessaloniki Works in Progress program highlights its importance in addressing societal issues while entertaining audiences.