Otkradnati ochi

This is the story of a strange, impossible, inexplicable love between a Turkish woman and a Bulgarian man. Ivan is a pure and romantic young fellow, who gets caught up in the so-called “regeneration process” [when ethnic Turks’ names were forcibly changed to Bulgarian ones]. He is responsible for the official seals, which are required to issue the new identity documents after the forced name changes. The schoolteacher Ayten tries to steal the seals, thinking that this way she can slow down the ethnic genocide. Their unexpected and unusual meeting brings these two characters together and makes them feel close, forcing Ivan to take a fateful decision – he must either “rename” Ayten, or face the consequences if he does not. Later on fate brings them together once again. Ayten’s small child is killed during an action by the special forces of that period. Ivan, who’s been among the main participants in this action is paralysed with shock. The security forces decide to “erase” his memory. Ayten is also put in isolation, in the same hospital. From death, which is the only choice left to each of them, comes the common path of Ivan and Ayten… They gradually overcome their animosity, accept their differences and draw towards each other. But will the people around them accept their choice? Happy endings are a rarity in the Balkans. Then Ayten’s brother returns from Turkey...