E8 • Keeping It Real • PAVEL G. VESNAKOV, dir. of 'Windless' at the Karlovy Vary Int. Film Festival

Bulgarian filmmaker Pavel Vesnakov discusses his journey in the film industry and his film 'Windless'. He talks about the importance of World Premiering at the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival - a significant milestone for him. He shares his early influences, including the films 'Taste of Cherry' by Abbas Kiarostami and '3 Iron' by Kim Ki-duk, which inspired him to pursue filmmaking.Pavel speaks on the challenges of making films in Bulgaria and the impact of working in the TV industry, the importance of realism in his films, and how his perspective has evolved over the years. We discuss the influence of the Romanian New Wave on his filmmaking style, the importance of capturing the mundane and authentic aspects of human existence, and the challenges of distributing and finding an audience for art films. We also touch on the use of specific techniques in 'Windless', such as the one-to-one aspect ratio and the incorporation of home video footage. Vesnakov shares his thoughts on the themes of memory, time, and identity, and his desire to create movies that allow viewers to reflect on their own lives and existence. He also mentions his upcoming project, 'Deconstruction', which explores the concept of going back in time.Short EndsPavel G. Vesnakov is excited about the world premiere of his film 'Windless' at the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival.He discusses the challenges of making films in Bulgaria, including limited funding and a small cinema industry.Pavel shares his early influences, including the films 'Taste of Cherry' by Abbas Kiarostami and '3 Iron' by Kim Ki-Duk, which inspired him to pursue filmmaking.Working in the TV industry helped him overcome shyness and develop a better understanding of what he wants to achieve as a director.He emphasizes the importance of realism in his films and the impact of capturing authentic moments on screen. The Romanian New Wave has influenced Vesnakov's filmmaking styleArt films face challenges in distribution and finding an audienceMemory, time, and identity are recurring themes in Vesnakov's workCreating movies that allow viewers to reflect on their own lives and existenceVesnakov's upcoming project, 'Deconstruction', explores the concept of going back in timeWhat Movies Are You Watching?Introducing the Past Present Feature Film Festival, a new showcase celebrating cinematic storytelling across time. From bold proof of concept shorts to stand out new films lighting up the circuit, to overlooked features that deserve another look. Sponsored by the Past Present Feature podcast and Leica Camera. Submit now at filmfreeway.com/PastPresentFeature Revival Hub is your guide to specialty screenings in Los Angeles - classics on 35mm, director Q&As, rare restorations, and indie gems you won't find on streaming. We connect moviegoers with over 200 venues across LA, from the major revival houses to the 20-seat microcinemas and more.Visit revivalhub.com to see what's playing this week. Support the showListen to all episodes on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more, as well as at www.pastpresentfeature.com. Like, subscribe, and follow us on our socials @pastpresentfeatureThe Past Present Feature Film Festival - Nov. 21, 2026 in Hollywood, CA - Submit at filmfreeway.com/PastPresentFeature