Transilvania at 25: How the Romanian Festival's Founders Keep Its Bold, 'Subversive,' 'All-or-Nothing' Spirit Alive

Transilvania International Film Festival marks its 25th edition in Cluj-Napoca, affirming a bold, subversive spirit that has defined the event since its 2002 inception. The festival runs June 12–21 in the medieval Romanian city and continues the founders’ mission to elevate Romanian cinema and connect filmmakers with decision-makers. Giurgiu and Chirilov recall a lean start when the industry faced collapse and state support was minimal, with no five-year plan and just two screening rooms for seven days. They credit early editions for being disciplined and rigorous, while embracing provocative programming that challenged expectations.