Georgi is an emerging Bulgarian writer-director with a keen interest in exploring social issues through his work. His stories delve into profound existential questions, offering thought-provoking narratives that challenge and engage the audience. With a passion for impactful storytelling, Georgi is quickly making a name for himself in the world of cinema and the occasion for this conversation is the upcoming premiere of his latest film „Bridge of Hands“ at Sofia Short Fest.

 Your film „Bridge of Hands“, which premieres on June 14 at Odeon Cinema at 5:00 PM, is an intriguing blend of documentary and fiction. Why did you choose this approach? What advantages does it offer? 

My choice of this hybrid format came from the specificity of the topic. It quickly became clear to me that most people are not familiar with the challenges, language, and culture of the deaf, which are fundamental to understanding any narrative from within the deaf world. This film carries an unusual story accompanied by educational materials to help understand it, like buying a new piece of furniture: you get both the materials and the instructions on how to assemble it.

 How did you decide to make a film about the deaf community? Do you have a personal connection to the topic, or did the topic find you? 

I don't have a personal connection to the deaf community beyond my personal interest. I’ve always found sign language beautiful and was looking for a good reason to learn it. At first, I was very afraid I’d feel like an intruder or a fraud, but I discovered that deaf people are very accepting and supportive of hearing individuals who truly want to learn their language and culture. The two are actually interdependent.

 As your film makes clear, the deaf community in Bulgaria faces certain discrimination, with unequal conditions for deaf children's education and no institutions seriously addressing this issue. What do you think could be done to solve this problem? 

First and foremost, access to education must be provided to deaf individuals. This requires sign language interpretation and various tools for better visual communication. We can look to the Scandinavian countries as an example - they are leading in this regard. There, deaf and hearing students study together in integrated settings. Classrooms have permanent sign language interpreters, interactive whiteboards, and visual materials so that information reaches everyone. Moreover, teachers undergo specialized training to develop bilingual teaching skills (spoken and sign language). The result is that deaf students not only absorb the material equally well but also build a stronger sense of belonging and confidence. This model shows how important it is to invest in accessible technologies and staff training to ensure a quality education for all.

 Was working with people from the deaf community a challenge? 

Absolutely not. It was a real pleasure for me to have the opportunity to work with deaf individuals on this project. The lead actress and the on-set consultants are deaf, which made for a very pleasant and vibrant filming environment. Moreover, deaf people have a great sense of humor, and every situation turned into a comedy sketch.

 At the end of the film, Gabi - one of the main characters - asks a very important question to us hearing people: “If you come across a deaf person tomorrow, what will you do?” What is your answer? 

After everything I’ve experienced during the making of this film, I can say that I see the potential for a new friend in every deaf person I meet. They are very genuine and empathetic people.

 And what advice would you give us in this regard? 

If you encounter a deaf person, don’t panic. There are several ways you can respond. Take out your phone, try writing, or even attempt to communicate with gestures and clear articulation. Be creative - it will be truly appreciated. What you definitely shouldn’t do is run away from the situation or immediately turn to the nearest hearing person for help. That would seem disrespectful in the eyes of the deaf person.

 Did you manage to learn a bit of sign language during the filming process? 

At this stage, I can proudly say that I have a B1 level in Bulgarian Sign Language. I started taking sign language courses about two years before filming. In fact, the very first thing I began doing - even before writing the script - was learning sign language. As Silvia, one of the deaf consultants on the film, told me: “Georgi, if you didn’t know at least a little sign language, none of the deaf people would have come for these interviews.”

I realized early on that if I wanted to step into the world of the deaf with the expectation that they would share their stories and thoughts with me, I had to approach with great respect. And that meant learning sign language.

 What do you hope to achieve in terms of public awareness with the film “Bridge of Hands”? 

I believe there is a serious lack of acceptance, tolerance, and empathy toward people who are different in Bulgaria. Simply put, we need to help each other more. Regarding the deaf, I hope more hearing people will think about how they can create more access for deaf individuals in their own fields. Subtitles on audiovisual content. Sign language interpreters at major events and on television broadcasts. Access for deaf people to state institutions. These are matters of huge importance to the deaf community.