This picture taken on November 6, 2024, shows US actor John Malkovich speaking during an AFP interview prior to the dress rehearsal for the play "Arms and the Man" which he directed at the Bulgarian National Theatre in Sofia. A 19th century play directed by US actor John Malkovich has caused a stir in Bulgaria, with critics slamming what they called the "insulting" portrayal of Bulgarians in the production. Last week's premiere of "Arms and the Man" by renowned Irish-born playwright George Bernard Shaw sparked raucous protests among nationalist groups. Holding up banners that read "Malkovich go home", angry protesters blocked access to the National theatre in the capital Sofia before attempting to storm it, accusing the 70-year-old director of ridiculing the country's history and its citizens. (Photo by Nikolay DOYCHINOV / AFP)