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Actor Nebli Basani: AI Writes Are Human Writes

Actor Nebli Basani: AI Writes Are Human Writes

Published: 12.10.2025

Reading time: 3.7 minutes

In this first-of-its-kind TalentNews Exclusive, we offer you an original Op-Ed by renowned British actor of Albanian origin, Nebli Basani — a frequent guest of Bulgaria's Capital City, Sofia🇧🇬, where he has worked on the sets of such movies as Shadow Land, Man with No Past, and High Ground, to name a few. AI Writes Are Human Writes? by Nebli Basani As much as I admire the steps being taken to protect human rights with regards to AI, we need to look reality in the eye. The Writers’ Strike ran from May 2023 to September 2023, and now, in October 2025, AI has already leapt forward in ways we barely predicted. Since then, systems like Gemini 2.5 can think, see, hear, and create on demand. Agentic AIs can act, not just answer. Robots now interpret language and manipulate objects in physical space (Helix). AI is designing better AI, optimizing chips, algorithms, and code. Models with trillions of parameters and token windows stretching into the hundreds of thousands are the new normal. For those who struggle understanding all of this in one sentence I am saying: AI has gone from a tool we use, to a force that’s now creating, improving, and evolving itself faster than any of us can keep up. In just two years, the gap between legislation and technology has grown into a chasm. I hear a lot recently about “let’s regulate.” Sure, I guess we can regulate. However, that means one country, or a few, regulating, while the rest of the world continues developing and programming Artificial Intelligence. In this new world, it would leave them behind and in an ever-multiplying, evolving technology that has already shaken the world thus far. Any attempt to regulate will work… in the short term. But with other countries not regulating, their...
Bulgaria's Official Entry for The 98th Academy Awards

Bulgaria's Official Entry for The 98th Academy Awards

Published: 10.10.2025

Reading time: 1.8 minutes

In a year when cinema continues to wrestle with borders both visible and invisible, Bulgarian filmmaker Milko Lazarov returns with Tarika, a haunting allegory about the forces that divide and unite us. The film, Lazarov's third feature, has been selected as Bulgaria’s official submission for the 98th Academy Awards in the Best International Feature Film category. It marks both artistic recognition and cultural reflection. Tarika first captured audiences at the BFI London Film Festival, where its meditative rhythm and stark imagery drew critical attention. The film later triumphed at the Kolkata International Film Festival, earning both Best Film and the prestigious FIPRESCI Award. Lazarov, who made waves with his Arctic-set drama Aga (a Bulgarian, German, and French coproduction), approaches his new film with a different kind of boldness. “This time, the story may seem almost too straightforward for me,” he admits, “but it carries a quiet weight, a sense of fragility.” That tension between clarity and contemplation has become his signature. Starring Veseka Valcheva and Zahari Baharov, Tarika is a co-production between Red Carpet, 42film, and Amour Fou, continuing the international collaboration that has defined Lazarov’s work. The project was first unveiled at the 2020 Berlinale European Film Market and later received support from an impressive roster of institutions, including the Bulgarian National Film Center, Creative Europe (MEDIA), MDM, ZDF/Arte, Film Fund Luxembourg, and Eurimages. For international audiences, the film bears the title Tarika, though its original Bulgarian name translates as The Herd, a telling metaphor for its exploration of human behavior and belonging. MG Film Boutiques is handling global sales as the film continues its festival journey and Oscar campaign. The Academy’s international feature shortlist will be revealed on December 16, 2025, with final nominations announced on January 22, 2026, ahead of the 98th Academy Awards ceremony on March...
California Enacts Landmark Laws Protecting Performers From AI Replicas

California Enacts Landmark Laws Protecting Performers From AI Replicas

Published: 09.10.2025

Reading time: 2.1 minutes

California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed two landmark bills into law aimed at protecting actors and performers from the unauthorized use of their likeness or voice through artificial intelligence.  The new laws – AB 2602 , AB 1836 , and the latest SB53 – address growing concerns in Hollywood about “digital clones” being used without consent, an issue that dominated last year’s SAG-AFTRA strike. Under AB 2602, contracts involving the use of AI-generated replicas must clearly specify if a performer’s likeness or voice will be digitally recreated, and the performer must be represented by a union or attorney.  The legislation, introduced by Assemblymember Ash Kalra (D-San José), extends protections beyond union actors to voice artists and other performers who have traditionally lacked such safeguards. Posthumous Protections for Artists “Union-represented actors may now have a collective bargaining agreement that includes safeguards against AI, but other performers like voice actors for media such as audio books, video games, and more, deserve the same legal safeguards,” said Kalra.  SAG-AFTRA General Counsel Jeffrey Bennett added that the law curbs exploitative contracts granting perpetual rights over an artist’s likeness. The second bill, AB 1836, introduced by Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer-Kahan (D-Orinda), bans the commercial use of a deceased performer’s digital replica in film, television, or video games without the consent of their estate.  “It is now possible to create new performances of artists even after their death,” Bauer-Kahan said. “They deserve protections that extend beyond their lifetime.” SAG-AFTRA President Fran Drescher, who joined Newsom at the signing ceremony, praised the legislation as a beacon to performers worldwide feeling threatened by AI. The union described the laws as the first of their kind in the United States. Governor Newsom said the measures aim to protect workers while still encouraging innovation in a state that’s home to 32 of...
Currently filmed in Bulgaria: 'One Second After'

Currently filmed in Bulgaria: 'One Second After'

Published: 06.10.2025

Reading time: 2.7 minutes

Principal photography on 'One Second After' is nearing completion in Bulgaria, marking another major international project choosing our country as its creative and logistical base. The film, produced by MPI Original Films with local production services provided by Solent Film, is a post-apocalyptic thriller based on William R. Forstchen’s best-selling novel of the same name.  What's known about the plot As per the film's official IMDb page, the story imagines how a small town in Western North Carolina struggles to survive after an electromagnetic pulse (EMP) wipes out nearly all electricity across North America. Actor Josh Holloway ('LOST', 'MI: Ghost Protocol') // Credit: Thibault License According to Deadline, the film stars Josh Holloway in the lead role, alongside Hannah John-Kamen and Famke Janssen, with Scott Rogers making his feature directing debut. Rogers is a veteran stunt coordinator and second unit director whose credits include Spider-Man 2 and 3, John Wick: Chapter 4, The Matrix Resurrections, Mulan, Uncharted, and many more. The film's director Scott Rogers. Credit: IMDb / Scott Rogers Rogers' transition to the director’s chair brings an action-focused sensibility to the adaptation, promising a film that balances tension, realism, and high-stakes physical storytelling. For Bulgaria’s film community, One Second After is not just another foreign shoot but a demonstration of the country’s ability to host complex, large-scale productions while maintaining high international standards. The decision to shoot in Sofia and its surrounding regions highlights both the visual flexibility of the landscape and the economic advantages that continue to attract Hollywood and European producers alike. A notable presence on the cast is the Sofia-based actor Nathan Cooper (The Toxic Avenger, Animal Friends). Official poster of 'One Second After' | Actor Nathan Cooper. (Credit: IMDb / Nathan Cooper) Cooper represents a growing group of foreign professionals who have made Bulgaria their home base, bridging...
What do we know about 'Sacrifice', partly filmed in Bulgaria?

What do we know about 'Sacrifice', partly filmed in Bulgaria?

Published: 05.10.2025

Reading time: 2.7 minutes

The upcoming international feature film Sacrifice (2025), directed by French-Greek filmmaker Romain Gavras (Athena, Le Monde est à toi), was partially shot in Bulgaria with production services provided by the Sofia-based company Solent Film. This collaboration marks yet another major production choosing Bulgaria for its diverse locations, skilled crews, and world-class production infrastructure. Anya Taylor-Joy behind the scenes of 'Sacrifice'. Credit: Instagram In late 2024, Hollywood actress Anya Taylor-Joy was spotted several times in Bulgaria while filming Sacrifice. The Golden Globe winner later shared photos from the set and described her experience filming as “pure magic.”  The actress posted several images capturing the atmosphere of the shoot, while a photo by a crew member suggests some scenes took place near Bulgaria's iconic Prohodna Cave, known locally as “God’s Eyes,” situated near the village of Karlukovo in the Lovech region. Photo taken by the crew of 'Sacrifice' inside the Prohodna Cave. Near Lovech, Bulgaria. Principal photography for Sacrifice took place across Greece, Bulgaria, and Iceland between November and December 2024, with Solent Film managing the Bulgarian portion of the production. While detailed information about all Bulgarian locations has not yet been released, the inclusion of Prohodna Cave highlights Bulgaria’s natural beauty and cinematic potential. What's known about the plot Sacrifice is an ambitious fantasy-drama written by Romain Gavras and Will Arbery. The story follows Joan, a zealous believer convinced she must prevent an impending apocalypse through an act of faith that tests morality and destiny. Joined by a group of unwilling companions, including a movie star, a billionaire, and a stranger caught in her path. Joan embarks on a journey through surreal landscapes that reflect both inner turmoil and divine revelation. The film stars Anya Taylor-Joy, Chris Evans, Salma Hayek, Vincent Cassel, John Malkovich, Ambika Mod, Brendan Fraser, Yung Lean, and Sam...
Maria Ivanova’s “God’s Work” Premieres at the House of Cinema, Oct. 11

Maria Ivanova’s “God’s Work” Premieres at the House of Cinema, Oct. 11

Published: 05.10.2025

Reading time: 1.6 minutes

On October 11, 2025, the House of Cinema in Sofia will host the official premiere of the highly anticipated short film God’s Work, directed by emerging filmmaker Maria Ivanova. The film is produced with the support of the National Film Center and marks the beginning of Ivanova’s journey in her native Bulgarian cinema following her graduation from VGIK (the world’s oldest film institute). Offcial screengrabs from 'God's Work'. All Rights Reserved. Plot: The life of widower Rusi and his neighbor Milko – a “priest” with the mind of a child – is turned upside down when a Turkish boy and a Bulgarian girl come to them seeking help to protect their love and escape their feuding families. Cast:Marin Yanev, Vasil Iliev, Nikola Tonev, Valeri Yordanov, Elina Ivanova, Nikolay Vladimirov, Dimitar Sulev, and a goat named Maria.  Offcial screengrabs from 'God's Work'. All Rights Reserved. The screenplay is written by Maria Ivanova and Hristo Rayanov. Pavla Kotova serves as dramaturgical consultant, Nenad Boroevich is it's director of photography, Petar Tukhchiev handled the editing, Samuil Kabakov is the sound designer, while Kosta Kolarov composed the original score, and Velichka Djambazova designed the production sets. The film is produced by Galina Toneva and Kiril Kirilov, with Georgi Nikolov as co-producer. God’s Work has already attracted the attention of festival audiences, being selected in the Best Short Film competition category at two of Bulgaria’s most prestigious film festivals – the In the Palace International Short Film Festival and the Golden Rose Bulgarian Feature Film Festival. Its participation in these forums positions the film among the most significant new titles in contemporary Bulgarian short cinema. The premiere at the House of Cinema will be followed by a discussion with the creative team. Tickets can be purchased on site or online through the House of Cinema’s website here:...
Bulgarian actress Alexandra Vale amongst the main cast of 'Bulgaria Amore Mio', in theatres Oct. 17

Bulgarian actress Alexandra Vale amongst the main cast of 'Bulgaria Amore Mio', in theatres Oct. 17

Published: 04.10.2025

Reading time: 2.2 minutes

The latest film by Italian director Antonio Pisu, “BULGARIA AMORE MIO”, will premiere in cinemas across Bulgaria on October 17.  The film is a co-production between Italy, Bulgaria, and Romania, inspired by real events experienced by its Italian producers. The main cast features Zachary Baharov (Mission Impossible: The Final Reckoning, Slow Horses) and rising Bulgarian star Aleksandra Vale (The War of Letters and L+T). They star alongside Italian actors Lodo Guenzi, Matteo Gatta, Jacopo Costantini, Cesare Bocci, and Samuele Sbrighi. The producers of the film are Maurizio Paganelli and Andrea Riceputi (Stradedelest Produzioni), with Nikolay Urumov (Band of Friends Pictures) as co-producer. Urumov is well known to Bulgarian audiences for his work on “Petya of My Petya” (2021), “Villa Rosa” (2013), and the TV series “House Arrest” and “Kantora Mitrani”. Trailer: The film’s director of photography is Adrian PadureČ›u. Plot While the Italian military intelligence service SISMI is on the trail of two traitors – Natalino Franchi (Cesare Bocci) and Luigi Rampelli (Denis Campitelli) – who are selling classified information to the Bulgarian secret services and the KGB, three friends from the small town of Cesena – Pago (Matteo Gatta), Riche (Lodo Guenzi), and Bibi (Jacopo Costantini) – decide to embark on a new journey. After their last adventure, which took them to communist Romania, life seems to have finally returned to normal. But without realizing it, Bibi draws his friends into another unexpected escapade – one that will soon change their lives. This time, fate takes them to Sofia, where Bibi’s mysterious pen pal Yulia (Aleksandra Vale) lives. Over the past six months, the two have exchanged letters, and Bibi has fallen in love with her. What begins as a romantic adventure quickly spirals into a whirlwind of unexpected situations. In Sofia, the friends find themselves face to face with Ivan...
Academy Award Nominee Maria Bakalova joins the cast of 'Double Blind'

Academy Award Nominee Maria Bakalova joins the cast of 'Double Blind'

Published: 04.10.2025

Reading time: 1.5 minutes

Oscar-nominated Bulgarian actress Maria Bakalova joins the cast of psychological thriller Double Blind, as reported by Deadline on September 30, 2025. The film, directed by John Hyams (Universal Soldier: Day of Reckoning, Alone), is described as an intense exploration of memory, identity, and perception - a story about a scientist who begins to lose track of time and reality after taking part in an experiment that quickly spirals out of control. Bakalova’s participation adds another strong title to her rapidly growing and increasingly diverse filmography. From her breakout role in Borat Subsequent Moviefilm, which earned her nominations for an Oscar, Golden Globe, and BAFTA, to her performances in major studio productions like Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 and acclaimed independent hits such as Bodies Bodies Bodies and The Honeymoon, Bakalova continues to choose roles that challenge expectations and expand her artistic boundaries. In Double Blind, Bakalova is expected to bring her signature depth and unpredictability to a story built on emotional and psychological tension. Although details about her character remain under wraps, her casting reflects the production’s commitment to centering the film around actors who embody both intellect and vulnerability. This new project further solidifies Bakalova’s growing influence as a representative of Eastern European talent in Hollywood. Few actors from the region have achieved such a swift and sustained rise on the global stage. Through her roles and her active support for independent cinema, as well as high-profile projects across a wide range of genres, she continues to expand opportunities for Eastern European creators in the international film industry. With every new role, Maria Bakalova redefines what it means for an Eastern European actor to succeed in Hollywood — breaking barriers, challenging stereotypes, and proving that talent knows no borders.
"Nope, #NotAnActress!": The Backlash Against AI-Generated Tilly Norwood

"Nope, #NotAnActress!": The Backlash Against AI-Generated Tilly Norwood

Published: 04.10.2025

Reading time: 2.8 minutes

The entertainment industry is witnessing a storm of controversy around ”Tilly Norwood”, the world’s first fully AI-generated “actress.” Unveiled at a Zurich summit, her introduction sparked fierce rebukes from actors, guilds, and critics who view her not as an innovation but as an existential threat to human creativity. From Hollywood’s vantage point, the backlash is clear: many performers and industry insiders see Norwood as an attempt to displace real actors under the guise of novelty. Prominent voices, including Emily Blunt and Whoopi Goldberg, expressed alarm that such synthetic figures may dilute the emotional core of cinema or, worse, siphon work away from living talent. The anger is rooted not merely in competition, but in a deeper fear that the very fabric of artistic authenticity is at stake. At the heart of the dispute lies SAG-AFTRA’s official response. The union declared that “creativity is, and should remain, human-centered”, and that it is fundamentally opposed to replacing human performers with synthetic constructs.  Their statement emphasized that “Tilly Norwood is not an actor; it’s a character generated by a computer program that was trained on the work of countless professional performers — without permission or compensation.” They warned that such synthetic creations lack life experience, emotional depth, and the grounded authenticity that real actors bring to their roles. SAG-AFTRA further insisted that producers must respect contractual obligations, including notice and collective bargaining, before deploying any synthetic performer.  In response, Eline Van der Velden, the creator behind Norwood and founder of AI studio Particle6 / Xicoia, has defended her work as an artistic experiment and a new tool, not a replacement for human performers. She asserted, “Tilly Norwood is not a replacement for a human being, but a creative work — a piece of art. Like many art forms before her, she sparks conversation, and that...
Denmark’s Landmark Ai Law Protects the Digital Self

Denmark’s Landmark Ai Law Protects the Digital Self

Published: 04.10.2025

Reading time: 2.1 minutes

Denmark has made history by introducing a new copyright law that recognizes personal rights over an individual’s digital likeness. In an era where artificial intelligence can recreate voices, faces, and entire bodies with unsettling accuracy, this legislation arrives at a critical moment for privacy and identity protection. By treating a person’s digital image as a form of intellectual property, Denmark has set a precedent that may reshape how Europe approaches synthetic media and deepfake regulation. The new law grants citizens ownership over their own digital representation. This includes their face, voice, and body in any AI-generated material. If these elements are used without consent, the affected person can demand their removal, seek compensation, or take civil action for infringement. In doing so, Denmark acknowledges that one’s likeness is not only a personal attribute but also a form of creative authorship deserving of protection. The Danish Parliament. PHOTO: Job & Magt / Johan Wessman Another key element of the reform lies in the accountability it imposes on online platforms. Digital services are now required to act swiftly when a user’s likeness is misused. If they fail to respond adequately, they may face legal liability or financial penalties. This provision marks a notable shift of responsibility from the individual to the platforms that host or distribute digital content. Denmark’s decision is both practical and forward-looking. It recognizes that as generative AI becomes more sophisticated, the boundary between authentic and artificial identity is rapidly fading. Deepfakes can already replicate someone’s voice or face for malicious or deceptive purposes, undermining reputations and spreading misinformation. With this new law, Denmark positions itself as one of the first nations to treat such misuse not just as an ethical issue but as a matter of legal ownership. Of course, challenges remain. Many creators of deepfake content operate...
Is The UK Film Boom Under Threat Of Trump Tariffs?

Is The UK Film Boom Under Threat Of Trump Tariffs?

Published: 04.10.2025

Reading time: 2.6 minutes

The UK’s film and high-end television industry is in the midst of a record-breaking run, drawing billions in overseas investment as American studios increasingly shift major productions to the United Kingdom.  This fact is generally seen as a positive development for all European filmmakers, whether they are based in the United Kingdom or in the European Union. The geographical proximity of these productions has always significantly increased opportunities for professionals from Bulgaria and its neighboring countries, as such projects are often partially filmed between London, Sofia, Bucharest, or Budapest — the four capitals that have established themselves on the market as the most attractive destinations for global cinema.  Yet the sector’s momentum may be undercut if US President Donald Trump follows through on his promise to impose 100% tariffs on foreign-made films. An official tweet by U.S. President Donald J. Trump on Sept. 29, 2025. A New Hollywood in the UK London and its surrounding regions have rapidly become a global filmmaking hub, with major studios operating at near full capacity. Pinewood Studios in Buckinghamshire, now locked into a long-term lease with Disney, has secured marquee productions including the next Spider-Man installment and two upcoming Avengers films. The numbers highlight the scale of the boom: in 2024, UK film and premium TV production generated £5.6 billion, up 31% from the year before. The vast majority – £4.8 billion – came from international co-productions and outside investment, reflecting Britain’s appeal as a cost-effective and reliable destination. A generous incentive scheme, the Audio-Visual Expenditure Credit, offers tax relief of up to 25.5% on qualifying production costs, giving US studios meaningful savings. Combined with a seasoned workforce and the absence of US-style healthcare expenses, these factors have made the UK one of the most attractive alternatives to Los Angeles. Hollywood’s Decline, Britain’s Gain...
Bulgaria-based talent will be starring in Hollywood's first upcoming Russia-Ukraine War/Thriller

Bulgaria-based talent will be starring in Hollywood's first upcoming Russia-Ukraine War/Thriller

Published: 03.10.2025

Reading time: 1.3 minutes

Sofia-based Maria-Radena Bozhkova (Nina Roza, Fracture), Joseph al-Ahmad (Man With No Past, Above The Clouds), and Anton Poriazov (It Goes On All Fours, Shattered Bonds), will be seen in the upcoming Russia-Ukraine War/Thriller Nightingale, directed by William Kaufman (Osiris, The Channel), set to release in 2026. The upcoming film, from producers Andrew and Isaac Lewis (Denton Film), will be considered among the first U.S./Hollywood fictional action films set during the Russia-Ukraine war. Filmed on location in Bulgaria, the production team took advantage of the country's diverse landscapes and architecture to authentically represent the Eastern European setting.  Official screengrabs from Nightingale. All Rights Reserved. The cast of Nightingale is a blend of established Hollywood talent and emerging international actors. LaMonica Garrett, known for his roles in "Special Ops: Lioness" and "1883," leads the ensemble, with Andrew Howard (Watchmen, Limitless) and Daniel Bernhardt (John Wick, The Matrix Reloaded) starring as well. Anton Poriazov, Maria-Radena Bozhkova, Anton Poriazov, Joseph al-Ahmad in Sofia. Joining the international cast are also Max Kraus (Kung Fury 2, Red Sonja), Rosemary Yaneva (Subservience, The Enforcer), and Ukrainian actress Tetiana Nosenko (Legacy of Lies, Guns and Kidneys), whose performances add authenticity and depth to the film's portrayal of bilingual characters.  The local casting was conducted by Preslava Hristova and Bobby Rizova from Nu Boyana Film Studios' Film Forge Casting (TalentVision Members since 2024).   photo by DoP Mark Rutledge. All Rights Reserved. #ComingSoon Follow the film's official channels to stay up to date: https://www.instagram.com/nightingalethemovie/  
TalentNews has launched! Your go-to news source to Bulgaria's role in the Entertainment Industry and more!

TalentNews has launched! Your go-to news source to Bulgaria's role in the Entertainment Industry and more!

Published: 03.10.2025

Reading time: 3.1 minutes

We’re thrilled to announce the official launch of TalentNews! A brand-new dynamic media platform dedicated to shining a spotlight on Bulgaria’s growing influence in the global entertainment industry and the incredible talent that drives it. It's no secret that in recent decades, Bulgaria has become one of Europe’s most dynamic film and television hubs, attracting major international productions and creating opportunities for local professionals to work alongside some of the biggest names in Hollywood and beyond. From large-scale studio shoots to independent co-productions, Bulgaria and the surrounding region are now recognized as essential contributors to the global screen industry. Behind this new publication stands TalentVision, our platform devoted to supporting creative professionals across Bulgaria, providing international opportunities to it's professional talent in both Cast and Crew. The launch of TalentNews marks a natural next step. A place to inform, inspire, and connect. While our main focus will be on Bulgarian talent, productions, and companies succeeding both locally and abroad, we’ll also be covering key developments and global trends that shape the entertainment landscape as a whole. Readers can look forward to:🎥 Exclusive interviews with actors, directors, producers, and behind-the-scenes professionals.đź“° Press releases and production updates from film sets and studios across Bulgaria and neighboring countries.🔎 Industry insights and features on the region’s growing role in international cinema and television. Meet our Main Editors: Journalists Violet George and Olia Al-Ahmed Violet George was born in Salt Lake City, Utah, USA, and is a Bulgarian-American journalist, publicist, and screenwriter with extensive experience in business trends as well as in the film industry. As a screenwriter, her short film “Motives” won the Best Short Film award at the Los Angeles Film Awards in 2019. As a journalist, Violet works for the US-European publication Carbon Herald, where she has interviewed figures such as producer Leila Conners...