Internal Zero (2025) by Eugen Jebeleanu

About movie: “Internal Zero” (original title: “Interior zero”) is a 2025 Romanian drama film directed by Eugen Jebeleanu, based on the novel of the same name by Lavinia Braniște. The film follows the trials and tribulations in the life of a thirtysomething woman named Cristina, portrayed by three different actresses. The film explores her struggles within an oppressive context and her attempts to adapt to adult life in a hostile Bucharest. It also incorporates a meta-narrative layer, showing the director explaining his artistic intentions and the actors interacting with the crew, blurring the lines between reality and fiction.

Plot summary: The plot follows Cristina, a woman in her thirties living in Bucharest, as she navigates various challenges in her life, including her job and personal relationships. The film uses three different actresses to portray Cristina, each focusing on different aspects of her life. Additionally, the film includes meta-narrative elements, showing the process of making the movie, with the director and actors discussing their roles and intentions.

Director’s Vision: Eugen Jebeleanu aims to portray the struggles of his generation through the anonymous character of Cristina, who is constrained by an oppressive environment. He intends to avoid portraying Cristina as a victim, instead focusing on her strength in small actions and decisions that drive her to change herself and her surroundings. Jebeleanu draws on his theater background, blurring the lines between reality and fiction by showing the film set and backstage, and questioning the role of the actor. He uses the multiplicity of the main character (three actresses) to portray different facets of her personality, hoping the audience will see their own stories reflected and feel encouraged to make changes in their lives.

• Struggle Against Oppressive Contexts – The film portrays the challenges faced by an individual within a hostile environment, suggesting a theme of resistance or adaptation to societal pressures and constraints.

• Identity and Self-Discovery – Following a woman in her thirties as she tries to adapt to adult life implies a theme of searching for and building one’s identity in a challenging world.

• Meta-Narrative and the Blurring of Reality and Fiction – The film’s incorporation of the filmmaking process as part of the narrative raises questions about the nature of reality and fiction, and the role of the artist in portraying life.

• Anonymity and Generational Portrait – The director aims to portray an anonymous character in a way that reflects the experiences and struggles of an entire generation, creating a social painting with a sense of distance and irony.

• Empowerment Through Small Actions – The film seeks to highlight the strength found in everyday gestures and decisions, suggesting a theme of personal agency and the potential for change from within.

• Unique Narrative Structure Blending Fiction and Meta-Narrative – The innovative approach of incorporating the filmmaking process into the story itself could be a key factor in attracting attention and critical discussion.

• Relatable Protagonist Facing Contemporary Challenges – The portrayal of a woman in her thirties navigating the complexities of modern life in Bucharest may resonate with a broad audience.

• Strong Performances from Multiple Actresses Portraying One Character – The use of three different actresses to embody the protagonist could offer a multifaceted and compelling character study.

• Exploration of Social and Political Themes Relevant to the Director’s Generation – The film’s intention to be a “civic manifesto” and reflect the struggles of a generation could resonate with viewers interested in social commentary.

• Aesthetic Approach Questioning Cinematic Realism – The deliberate breaking of traditional cinematic conventions and the exploration of the boundary between reality and fiction could appeal to cinephiles and those interested in experimental filmmaking.

Summary short: “Internal Zero” is a 2025 Romanian drama directed by Eugen Jebeleanu, adapted from a novel, which follows the life of a woman in Bucharest through three actresses while also incorporating meta-narrative elements about the filmmaking process.

Awards and nominations: “Internal Zero” has been nominated in the Smart 7 competition at the 2025 Vilnius International Film Festival (Kino Pavasaris), a program dedicated to emerging directors from seven European countries.

• Cineuropa: Ştefan Dobroiu of Cineuropa reviewed the film at the Vilnius International Film Festival, noting that Eugen Jebeleanu seems “undecided as to whether he wants to make a film or the making-of of a film.” The review mentions the film follows the life of Cristina, played by three actresses, and includes a meta layer showing the director and crew at work. While acknowledging it might have its fans and effectively portrays the challenges of a modern Romanian woman, the review questions whether the film is truly “bold” or “revolutionary,” suggesting it leans more towards an agenda than pure cinema. The reviewer found the meta-narrative aspects “un-cinematic,” “contrived,” and “opaque.”

Summary: Initial critical reception from Cineuropa suggests a mixed response, with praise for the film’s ambition and portrayal of contemporary struggles, but criticism for its meta-narrative approach being distracting and less cinematic.

Reviews: As the film premiered recently at the Vilnius International Film Festival (March 15, 2025), broader reviews are likely still emerging. The Cineuropa review mentioned above is one of the first available critical assessments. More general audience reviews are not yet available.

Box office: Box office information for “Internal Zero” is not yet available as it has just premiered. However, information from April 2024 indicates the film had a budget of approximately 900,000 EUR and received support from the Romanian Film Centre (CNC) and other sponsors.

Production: “Internal Zero” is a Romanian production by Icon Production, directed by Eugen Jebeleanu and written by Ioana Moraru, based on the novel by Lavinia Braniște. The film features a cast including Valentina Zaharia, Cristina Drăghici, and Cendana Trifan in the lead role, with support from other Romanian actors and a crew including cinematographer Marius Panduru and editor Cătălin Cristuțiu.

Production companies (name, country):

Sales companies (name, country, sentence): The international sales for “Internal Zero” are being handled by Patra Spanou Film.

Release date on streaming: A specific release date for streaming platforms has not yet been announced.

Theatrical release: “Internal Zero” had its world premiere on March 15, 2025, at the Vilnius International Film Festival (Kino Pavasaris). Information regarding wider theatrical release dates is not yet available.

Why to recommend this movie:

• For those interested in experimental and meta-narrative filmmaking – The film’s unique structure, blending a fictional story with behind-the-scenes elements, offers a distinctive cinematic experience that challenges traditional storytelling conventions.

• If you appreciate films that explore the complexities of contemporary life in Eastern Europe – The portrayal of a woman navigating the challenges of modern Bucharest provides a glimpse into the social and personal realities of the region.

• For viewers who enjoy character studies with multifaceted portrayals – The use of three actresses to play the same character could offer a rich and nuanced exploration of identity and the different facets of an individual’s life.

• If you are drawn to films that aim to be more than just entertainment and offer social commentary – The director’s intention to create a “civic manifesto” suggests the film engages with relevant social and political issues.

• To experience a film from an emerging Romanian director known for tackling social issues – Eugen Jebeleanu’s previous work, “Poppy Field,” received international recognition, suggesting “Internal Zero” will offer a thoughtful and engaging perspective.

• If you are intrigued by adaptations of contemporary Romanian literature – The film is based on a novel by Lavinia Braniște, a lauded author, which might attract those familiar with her work or interested in modern Romanian storytelling.

• To see a film that is participating in a prestigious international film festival – Its selection for the Smart 7 competition at the Vilnius International Film Festival indicates a certain level of artistic merit and potential for thought-provoking content.

• If you are looking for a film that breaks away from conventional cinematic realism – The director’s deliberate choice to show the filmmaking process and question the boundary between reality and fiction promises a unique and potentially intellectually stimulating viewing experience.

What Movie Trend film is following: Meta-Narrative and Self-Reflexive Cinema. The film’s incorporation of the filmmaking process into the story aligns with a trend of films that break the fourth wall and explore the nature of cinema itself. This approach often invites the audience to consider the constructed nature of film and the role of the filmmaker.

What Big Social Trend is following: Focus on the Experiences of Millennials/Younger Generations in Post-Communist Societies. The film’s portrayal of a thirtysomething woman in Bucharest navigating the challenges of contemporary life in Romania reflects a broader interest in exploring the experiences, anxieties, and aspirations of younger generations in countries that have transitioned from communist regimes.

Final Verdict: “Internal Zero” appears to be an ambitious and experimental film that blends a character-driven narrative with meta-narrative elements, offering a unique perspective on contemporary life in Bucharest and the process of filmmaking itself. While initial critical reception highlights both its potential and its unconventional approach, the film’s participation in an international film festival and its director’s previous work suggest it could be a thought-provoking and engaging experience for viewers interested in innovative and socially conscious cinema.

Recommendations for film makers:

• Carefully Balance Meta-Narrative Elements with the Core Fictional Story – While incorporating the filmmaking process can be innovative, filmmakers should ensure it enhances rather than detracts from the emotional engagement and narrative flow of the main story. The meta elements should serve a clear purpose and not become too distracting or opaque for the audience.

• Ensure Strong Character Development Despite the Use of Multiple Actors – When using multiple actors to portray a single character, it is crucial to maintain a sense of cohesion and ensure that each portrayal contributes meaningfully to the overall understanding of the character’s personality, motivations, and struggles. Clear thematic links between the different portrayals are essential.

• Clearly Define the Intended “Civic Manifesto” and Integrate it Subtly Within the Narrative – If the goal is to make a social or political statement, filmmakers should aim to integrate these themes organically within the story and characters, rather than relying on explicit or didactic dialogue that might feel “un-cinematic.”

• Consider the Audience’s Willingness to Engage with Experimental Forms – While innovation is valuable, filmmakers should be mindful of the potential for unconventional narrative structures to alienate some viewers. It’s important to strike a balance between artistic experimentation and audience accessibility.

Recommendations for movie industry:

• Support Emerging Filmmakers Who Take Creative Risks – Eugen Jebeleanu’s approach in “Internal Zero” demonstrates a willingness to experiment with form and narrative. The industry should continue to support such filmmakers who push boundaries and explore new ways of telling stories.

• Recognize the Value of Films That Offer Social and Cultural Insights – Films that delve into the realities of specific cultural contexts, like contemporary Romania in “Internal Zero,” can provide valuable insights and foster cross-cultural understanding. The industry should support such projects for their artistic and social merit.

• Provide Platforms for Films with Unique Narrative Structures – Festivals and distribution channels should be open to showcasing films that experiment with form and challenge traditional cinematic conventions, as these can contribute to the evolution of the art form.

• Facilitate Dialogue Between Filmmakers and Audiences About Experimental Works – When films employ unconventional techniques, creating opportunities for discussion and understanding can enhance the viewing experience and appreciation for the filmmaker’s intentions. This could include Q&A sessions, critical essays, and accessible information about the film’s artistic choices.