Archil Gugberidze (’17) Publishes First Book with Screenplays
Georgian-born Archil Gugberidze (’17), who is currently pursuing an acting career in New York, has just published his first book. “BIPOLAR: 5 Short Screenplays and Their Philosophical Analyses” is a collection of screenplays and essays that explore the meaning behind the author’s works. “I wrote the analyses because I wanted the book to be more personal, more autobiographical,” Gugberidze said. “I talk about my life and what parts of it inspired me to write each screenplay. These screenplays are focused on relationships, frustration, regrets and different perspectives. However, all of them have one thing in common – 'Things are never as they seem at first!'"
While the aspiring actor studied Business Administration and Economics at AUBG, he has been passionate about acting since he was five-years-old. Gugberidze used every opportunity to do creative work at AUBG, acting and directing theater plays and participating in the musical. When he moved to NYC, he enrolled at the Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute – a school that boasts alumni like Lady Gaga, Chris Evans and Uma Thurman.
“AUBG gave me confidence that I could go to the United States and be part of the film industry,” he said. “The people that had the most effect on me at AUBG were professors Arthur Pantelides, Michael Cohen and Nedyalko Delchev. They inspired me to think outside the box and to set goals.” The Georgian said the Work and Travel programs, the diverse culture and the many student clubs at AUBG opened up new opportunities for him and helped him become more confident.
Gugberidze also said that at the university, he found “friends for life” and that he is still collaborating with AUBG graduates. Alumna Fatme Tsiko designed the cover for his book, while alumna Nini Pkhakadze will help him publish an audio version. And even though Gugberidze now lives in one of the world’s largest megapolises, he hasn’t forgotten the small town in Southwest Bulgaria where it all began. “I love Blago, I miss it and I will visit soon,” he said.