We’re thrilled to share that “Horia”, the debut feature from Ana-Maria Comănescu, has been nominated for four Gopo Awards, Romania’s most prestigious film honours. A warm and quietly rebellious road movie, “Horia” tells the story of a restless teenager who hits the road on his father’s old motorbike, aiming to reunite with his love. Along the way, he’s unexpectedly joined by 13-year-old Stela, and the two forge an unlikely friendship.
With its mix of youthful energy, emotional nuance, and cinematic charm, “Horia” has earned nominations in the following Gopo Award categories:
- Best Debut – Ana-Maria Comănescu
- Best Supporting Actress – Angelina Pavel
- Best Cinematography – Tudor Mircea
- Best Original Music – Janja Lončar
These nominations come after a successful international festival circuit, with “Horia” making notable stops across Europe. The film had its international premiere at Tallinn Black Nights – Just Film 2023, followed by screenings at Sofia IFF, Belgrade IFF, and Zlín Film Festival in the Czech Republic. Back home, it featured in the Romanian Film Days section at TIFF, and continued its travels to Karawan Fest 2024 in Rome, VII Festival Cine por Mujeres Madrid 2024, where it received a Special Mention in the international competition, FIFF Namur 2024, the Romanian Film Festival at the Munich Filmmuseum, and the Oulu International Children’s and Youth Film Festival in Finland.
Much like its protagonist Horia, the film has been on a journey of its own: crossing borders, connecting with diverse audiences, and leaving a mark with its sincerity and charm. What started as a personal, local story about youth and longing has found resonance far beyond its roots.
At a time when the industry often swings between extremes—arthouse minimalism or commercially-driven comedies— “Horia” stands out as a reminder of the power of middlebrow cinema: accessible, nostalgic, emotionally generous, and still artistically grounded. Films like this matter. They welcome wide audiences without compromising craft, they capture the atmosphere of a generation, and they stay with you like an old song from a summer long gone.
We’re proud to see “Horia” recognized and celebrated. The road so far has been long, winding, and full of surprises—just like the film itself.