Overview of CineLibri International Book-to-Film Festival
CineLibri is a unique and rapidly growing annual cultural event in Bulgaria: the world’s first international Book-to-Film Festival, dedicated entirely to cinematic adaptations of literary works.
Origins and Mission
Founded in 2015 by Jacqueline Wagenstein, CineLibri celebrates the creative convergence of literature and cinema, showcasing films that translate novels, short stories, memoirs, and other literary texts into powerful visual narratives.
The festival aims to promote European cultural values, encourage intercultural dialogue, and offer access to high-quality, non-commercial cinema rooted in literary heritage.
It also fosters education and community through school outreach, university events, and year-round screenings beyond the main festival.
Locations & Timing
Taking place every autumn, CineLibri is held in Sofia, Plovdiv, Varna, as well as in other Bulgarian cities such as Burgas, Gabrovo, Veliko Tarnovo, Stara Zagora, and more.
In 2025, the 11th edition is scheduled from October 10 to November 3.
Festival Structure
CineLibri’s program is divided into three competitive sections:
Feature Films – full-length adaptations
Short Films – shorter works based on literature
Documentaries – often focusing on writers, literary thinkers, or the creative process
Each section is judged by an international jury composed of prominent film and literary professionals (directors, writers, actors, composers, etc.).
There is also a BOB (Based on Books) professional strand: an industry forum to explore trends, challenges, and creative practice in adapting books for the screen.
2025 Edition Highlights
The 11th CineLibri festival’s theme is inspired by Boris Vian’s novel L’Écume des jours (“Froth on the Daydream”), expressing the festival’s commitment to imagination and the poetic in contemporary reality.
The opening ceremony takes place in Sofia’s National Palace of Culture (Hall 1).
Over 90% of the films in the 2025 program will have their national premiere in Bulgaria, coming from prestigious international film festivals (Cannes, Venice, Berlin, Toronto, etc.).
Among special guests: Sylvie Vartan, who returns to Bulgaria during the festival to present a lifetime achievement award and appear in a documentary about her life.
The international jury in 2025 is presided by notable figures such as Danish actor Claes Bang.
Program & Events
Beyond the main competitions, CineLibri offers:
Special screenings: including animated films, children’s cinema, classical adaptations.
Discussions and talks: between filmmakers, writers, scholars, and audiences.
Educational initiatives: such as workshops, school programs, and university events to engage younger audiences.
Award Ceremony: with prizes for best literary adaptation, plus honorary awards for lifetime contributions.
Cultural Impact
CineLibri has grown into one of Bulgaria’s most important cultural festivals. It not only highlights European and global cinematic artistry but also supports cultural tourism: its presence in multiple Bulgarian cities draws local and international audiences.
The festival is backed by major cultural institutions, including Bulgaria’s Ministry of Culture, the National Film Center, municipal governments, and European partners.
By bridging literature and film, CineLibri offers a platform for dialogue, creativity, and critical reflection — encouraging audiences to think about how stories evolve when they move from page to screen.
Why CineLibri Matters
Unique Concept: As a dedicated Book-to-Film festival, it fills a very specific niche rarely addressed by film festivals elsewhere.
Artistic Quality: The films selected are often award-winning, auteur-driven, or independent — not just commercial blockbusters.
International Reach: Filmmakers from around the world submit their adaptations, making it a truly global event.
Cultural Resonance: By celebrating literary adaptations, CineLibri raises awareness of authors, works, and themes that might otherwise remain within the literary domain.
