A Psychological Thriller Led by Award‑Winning Producer/Director Martin Nuza
Production Begins in Bulgaria – May 2026
Bulgaria / London – Pre‑production has officially begun on ONE NIGHT IN RILA, a high‑concept psychological thriller driven by the creative vision of award‑winning Producer/Director Martin Nuza. Filming is set to take place in Bulgaria from 10–31 May 2026, using the haunting natural beauty of the Rila and Rhodopi Mountains to shape a bold new entry into the global horror‑thriller landscape.
Nuza’s signature cinematic style—atmospheric, character‑focused, and emotionally charged—anchors the project. Under his direction, ONE NIGHT IN RILA promises a chilling blend of psychological tension, immersive world‑building, and deeply human storytelling designed to resonate with both genre enthusiasts and international audiences.
A Journey Into Darkness
The film follows a group of friends and strangers in their early twenties who travel from London to Bulgaria for a rock festival, seeking escape and exhilaration. Their retreat to a secluded mountain villa begins as a carefree weekend of music, alcohol, and laughter—until nightfall brings a creeping sense of dread that none of them can escape.
Setting & Atmosphere
- Location: Bulgaria’s Rila and Rhodopi Mountains
- Visual Style: Candlelit interiors, moonlit forests, naturalistic night photography
- Mood: Folklore‑tinged paranoia, dreamlike unease, and modern isolation
The mountains serve as more than a backdrop—they are an active force within the film. Their vast forests, oppressive quiet, and endless night skies heighten the characters’ vulnerability and psychological unraveling. At the heart of the story stands Villa Elena, a remote mountain home that becomes both sanctuary and snare, mirroring the group’s descent into fear.
Nuza’s Psychological Approach to Horror
Under Martin Nuza’s direction, the film leans into psychological horror rather than spectacle. Themes of youthful recklessness, fractured trust, cultural displacement, and the terror of the unknown shape a narrative where every shadow and silence carries weight. Subtle influences from Eastern European folklore blend with contemporary sensibilities, creating a timeless yet modern tone.
International Appeal
With an English‑speaking cast, European setting, and universal themes, ONE NIGHT IN RILA is positioned for strong global reach across streaming platforms, festivals, and theatrical markets. Bulgaria’s rising reputation as a film‑friendly production hub—combined with its dramatic natural landscapes—makes it the ideal home for Nuza’s vision.
Production Details
- Title: ONE NIGHT IN RILA
- Genre: Psychological Thriller / Horror
- Status: Pre‑production
- Filming Dates: 10–31 May 2026
- Location: Rila Mountains, Bulgaria
The production team is committed to crafting a tightly controlled, immersive experience designed to linger long after the credits roll.
Casting Led by Martin Nuza
Nuza’s hands‑on approach to casting has shaped a dynamic ensemble of emerging talent and seasoned performers. He explains:
“We held a tight audition process and received submissions from actors across the globe, but ultimately we chose fresh new talent after seeing their auditions. They truly bring the characters to life and give the story a realism that feels raw and immediate.”
The cast includes Jack Aldridge, Eliza Boyce, Belle Taylor, Ella Knight, Anna Barrowman, Josh Simpson, Adam Peake, Tayah Kansik, Ego Mikitas, and Kurt Dirt, each contributing to the film’s tense, unpredictable group dynamic.
A Cinematic Vision Enhanced by Award‑Winning Talent
Visually, the film is in exceptional hands. BAFTA Award‑winning Director of Photography Rob Shacklady, whose credits include major international franchises such as James Bond and Star Wars, will shape the film’s distinctive look.
Nuza adds:
“Rob brings years of experience to this project, and his vision will give audiences that unmistakable sensation of being transported onto the silver screen—fully immersed in the world we’re creating.”