Movie Details:
Bulgarian title | Гунди – Легенда за любовта |
Also known as | Gundi – legenda za lyubovta |
Country | Bulgaria |
Language | Bulgarian |
Genres | Biography, Sport |
Release date | October 18, 2024 |
Running time | 2hr 46min |
Starring | Pavel Ivanov, Aleksandra Svilenova |
Directed by | Dimitar Dimitrov |
Written by | Emil Bonev, Velichka Markova-Lita |
Produced by | Andrei Arnaudov, Ivan Hristov |
Cinematography by | Boris Slavkov |
Edited by | Victoria Radoslavova |
Music by | George Strezov |
Costume Design by | Elena Ivanova |
Production Company | Medium Station |
Distributor | Medium Station |
Cast & Characters:
- Pavel Ivanov as Georgi Asparuhov (Gundi)
- Aleksandra Svilenova as Gundi’s wife Lita
- Paraskeva Dzhukelova as Gundi’s mother Maria
- Stoyan Radev as Zoro
- Aleksandra Kostova as Gundi’s sister Lidka
- Emil Markov as Lita’s father architect Markov
- Bilyana Petrinska as Lita’s mother Marena
- Nikolay Urumov as Kotse Georgiev
- Sotir Melev as Aleksandar Kostov
Storyline:
“Gundi: Legend of Love” is a poignant sports drama that chronicles the life of Georgi Asparuhov, Bulgaria’s most beloved football icon of the 20th century. From humble beginnings in a Sofia suburb to national stardom, the film unfolds the dual narratives of Georgi’s spectacular career and his deep love for his wife, Lita. Set against the backdrop of Bulgaria’s political and social turbulence during the 1960s, the story captures Georgi’s rise as a footballing legend alongside his struggles within the oppressive regime that sought to control every aspect of his life. At the heart of the narrative is his relationship with Lita, a woman from an affluent family whose love becomes Georgi’s anchor amid the challenges of his career and the demands of fame. Their journey is marred by external pressures and personal trials but buoyed by moments of joy and triumph, such as the legendary matches that secured Georgi’s place in sports history. Tragically, their shared dreams and hopes are cut short on June 30, 1971, leaving a legacy that transcends generations. The film blends authentic period detail with dynamic football action, brought to life through state-of-the-art VFX, showcasing some of the most pivotal matches in Georgi’s career. “Gundi: Legend of Love” not only celebrates the sportsman but also the man behind the legend, whose love story continues to inspire long after his untimely demise.
About Movie:
Pavel Ivanov prepared for more than six years for the role of Gundi.
Shooting took place in June and July 2023.
Gundi: Legend of Love premiered on 9 October 2024 in Arena Sofia and its opening weekend set an all-time Bulgarian box office record. In November 2024, it became the highest-grossing film in Bulgarian history and the first film to sell more than 500,000 tickets in Bulgaria since 1989.
Budget & Box Office Collection:
Budget | 4.5 million leva (2.3 million euro) |
Worldwide Collection | $3,726,222 |