Four decades of love for the magic of the seventh art, packed theaters, and shared emotions – this autumn, "Kinomania" celebrates its 40th edition!

Traditionally, in the second half of November, the festival presents not only the best foreign titles but also the latest Bulgarian productions and co-productions. 

One such intriguing title with international success enters this year's 40th edition of "Kinomania" – "Ice Land" (with the English title Brace Your Heart) by Swedish director Amanda Kernell – a co-production between Sweden, Denmark, Norway, Iceland, and Bulgaria. The story is related to the reindeer herders from the Sámi community in the northernmost part of Europe. 

"Ice Land" will have its premiere in Bulgaria at "Kinomania" on November 25 at 7:00 PM. At the special event of the festival, we expect a meeting with the local team of the film, as well as with the delegated producer Eva Åkergren.

The world premiere of "Ice Land" took place at the Toronto Film Festival, which brought a Special Jury Award, and just days later, director Amanda Kernell received the award for Best Direction ("Silver Shell") at the San Sebastián International Film Festival. The Bulgarian co-producer of the film is Invictus Films (Kalinski Brothers).

The film made it to the shortlist for the 39th European Film Awards (EFA).

ICE LAND
In a remote Sámi village high in the mountains, 20-year-old Eiva inherits her late father's reindeer herd. As she struggles to keep the herd, the local leader Heika begins to develop romantic feelings for her. Although filled with hesitation, Eiva feels obliged to accept his feelings. However, everything changes when Neila, Heika's cousin, joins their group, and Eiva discovers true love for the first time. Consumed by jealousy, Heika reacts with aggression. Stressed by what happened, Eiva's hands begin to tremble uncontrollably, and her condition threatens her ability to care for the herd. Now Eiva must find a way to regain control over her life and future.

Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Iceland, Bulgaria, 2026, 97 min.
Director: Amanda Kernell

Starring: Elli Sara Valkeapää, Vincent Nya, Ante Gaup-Juuso 

TICKETS: On sale online at https://epaygo.bg/1764547616 and at the NDK box offices.

The "Kinomania" festival is organized by the National Palace of Culture (NDK) in partnership with the "I Have an Idea" foundation. The project is implemented with the financial support of the Ministry of Culture, the National Film Center, and the Sofia Municipality. "Kinomania" is part of the Calendar of Cultural Events of Sofia Municipality for 2026.