Mandragora

Mandragora is one of the most dynamic production companies in Romania. Founded by Cristi Puiu and Anca Puiu together with Alex Munteanu in 2004, it shortly became a success projects generator, starting with it first production, “The Death of Mr. Lăzărescu”, considered the first major film in the so-called “Romanian New Wave” and the spark that ignited a national film renaissance that continues to this day.
The company has developed several feature films: “The Death of Mr. Lăzărescu” (2005) by Cristi Puiu – “Un Certain Regard”, Cannes 2005; “Megatron” (2008) by Marian Crisan – “Palme d’Or”, “Aurora” by Cristi Puiu, Cannes 2010,“Morgen” by Marian Crisan, Jury Prize Locarno 2010, “Rocker” by Marian Crisan, San Sebastian 2012.

Short films such as “Megatron”, 2008, by Marian Crisan – “Palme d’Or” for short film, “Thursday”, 2007, by Hadrian Marcu and “Bricostory”, 2006, by Andreea Paduraru, have been well-received by the audience and festivals.
The 14 episode “Lombarzilor 8” by Mimi Branescu and Dan Chiriac, inaugurated in 2006 the company’s TV series production line and new company Mandragora Movies.

The first documentary, “TUB – TransUrbanBucuresti” by Cristi Puiu, 2008, was followed by “Metrobranding” by Ana Vlad and Adi Voicu, released this year. The same team of directors also sign the latest Mandragora production, “Victoria”.
Mandragora is committed to the idea of making movies that explore new ways in the cinema discourse. It also launches new talents, encouraging personal, coherent approaches of the young filmmakers.

The value of the movies produced by Mandragora is confirmed by the audience’s interest, critics’ attention and prizes: “The Death of Mr. Lăzărescu” won “Un Certain Regard” and over 40 national and international other prizes, being one of the most-awarded movie in the Romanian cinema, “Megatron” won several awards, starting with “Palme d’Or” for short film, “Francesca” after its presents at Orizzonti, Venice 2009, was recognized with the FIPRESCI award (Gijon) and Bursa prize, “Aurora” by Cristi Puiu was in Cannes 2010 and most recently “Morgen” by Marian Crisan won 4 prizez at Locarno Film Festival in 2010.

Director Cristi Puiu is often invited to be part of various festival juries, the most notable being “Un Certain Regard” in 2007 and this year he was the Director of the jury in Sarajevo film Festival.