My Grandpa Ivan

As Danny grieves the loss of his Grandpa and begins his transition into professional soccer, he feels pulled back to the cherished memories of his summers in the small town of Teteven, Bulgaria. Reflecting on his youth with his grandpa, Danny recalls timeless lessons and a friendship that left a lasting impression on everyone in the town. When Ivan gifts Danny a vibrant orange soccer ball the trajectory of his life changes forever igniting an irrepressible passion for the sport. Under Ivan’s mentorship, Danny becomes a skilled player, dazzling defenders in club games. However, as Danny grows older, Ivan’s health begins to fail. The inevitable happens when Danny receives the devastating news of Ivan’s passing. Seeking clarity, Danny returns to Teteven, hoping to find the strength to pursue his soccer career in the absence of his beloved mentor.

Film Maker
Staykov, Kamen
Year
2026
Country
Canada, Bulgaria
Length
13
Language
Bulgarian, English
Category
Canada, Childhood, Community, Culture, Families, Identity, Immigration, Memory, Mental Health, Time + Space, Youth
Genre
Drama, narrative, short