A New Beginning: First Programme Highlights Released!

From gripping films to immersive VR experiences, discover how Dokumentale 2025 brings together diverse voices and powerful forms of non-fiction storytelling in the heart of Berlin. Dive in and get to know our first programme highlights!

berlin

culture

Ida Hausdorf

12.03.2025

This year, everything is different—but in the best way possible. Don’t worry, we’re still bringing you the crème de la crème of non-fiction storytelling, just in a whole new format.

We’re kicking off Dokumentale 2025 with a bang— 12–15 June, three days of full-day programming at the iconic Atelier Gardens, one of Europe’s oldest film studios and a growing hub for social transformation. Perfect for a summer to remember!
Expect open-air screenings under the Berlin sky, rooftop readings with breathtaking views of Tempelhofer Feld and the TV tower, interactive experiences in the historic studios, live podcasts, and a special programme for kids and teens. Dive into conversations, gain fresh perspectives through talks and workshops, and fully immerse yourself into the Dokumentale experience!

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Powerful Documentaries all over the City!

After our three day celebration at Atelier Gardens, we expand the festival and will continue all over the city. From June 16th to 22nd, we will bring over 40 international documentaries into Berlin’s most iconie cinemas, museums, and clubs—for you to watch in the comfort of your neighbourhood.
With a film program that truly reflects the diversity of perspectives worldwide, the festival brings the world to Berlin. Get ready for thought-provoking, eye-opening films across a wide range of topics. From political investigations to humorous explorations, we really offer something for every taste!

Film

Abortion Dream Team

Four women, a dangerous fight. In Poland, where abortion is illegal, the Abortion Dream Team is helping hundreds of women every day—loudly, fearlessly, and visibly. One member faces prison, another struggles with the emotional toll. How long can they keep going?

Film

Sabbath Queen

A thirty-eighth generation rabbi, drag queen rebel, and queer father: Rabbi Amichai breaks with tradition. The film captures Amichai’s search for a new, inclusive Judaism. A provocative, loving portrait of someone who shatters boundaries and brings people together.

Film

Wild Coast Warriors

On South Africa’s west coast, Shell’s reckless greed threatens to destroy not just the sea but also the livelihoods of the AmaMpondo. But they resist—tirelessly and determined, before the courts and on the streets. Their fight for their environment is a fight for survival.

Check out our programme to see more documentary highlights!

More than just Film: Books, Podcasts und Virtual Reality

Books that inspire

But Dokumentale isn’t just about films—we’re also bringing exciting new literature to the table. This year, we won’t just offer you a diverse range of different non-fiction books, but you will also have the chance to meet the authors in live-readings and interactive discussions.

Book

Collective Wisdom: Co-Creating Media for Equity and Justice

What if the key to groundbreaking change lies in creating together? This exploration of co-creation reveals how collaboration, justice, and innovation fuel true collective intelligence in fields like tech and health.

Check out our programme to see more book highlights!

Podcasts that make you think

Another exciting change: This year you will get to listen to your favorite podcasts in our D’25 Podcast Lounge AND meet the podcasters behind them. Be part of Live Podcast Recordings in the heart of Atelier Gardens. Listen, learn and get involved! We have a wonderful diverse selection of Podcasts, and have already released a few of our highlights:

Podcast

Behind Science

The True Science Podcast about coincidences, breakthroughs, and scandals. Discover the emotional, often controversial stories of people who changed the world through science.

Podcast

Deutsch aber Schwarz

A podcast about identity, culture, and personal growth. Together with Jil-Henriane, guests from diverse cultural backgrounds share their experiences in Germany, major challenges, and inspiring stories.

Podcast

Gyncast

Periods, pregnancy, anatomy—no taboos, no clichés! Head physician Prof. Mandy Mangler and journalists Esther Kogelboom (Tagesspiegel) and Anna Kemper (ZEIT Magazin) take a deep dive into the fascinating world of gynaecology. Scientifically sound, no tired tropes, and truly empowering.

Check out our programme to see more Podcast highlights!

More Action, More Diversity, More Live Programming—We Can’t Wait!

Dokumentale is growing, and we’re bringing even more exciting content, discussions, and experiences to Berlin this year. From inspiring films and thought-provoking books to live podcasts and innovative VR experiences, the festival promises a unique adventure that will open new perspectives and foster meaningful exchanges. We can’t wait to start the second year of Dokumentale and welcome you all to this incredible journey! Stay tuned for more highlights to be released!

Ida Hausdorf

Content & Multimedia Lead

Ida is a multimedia editor, social media- and impact strategist with a keen eye for digital storytelling. With a background in Psychology and Communication (BA) and a Master’s in Television and Cross-Media Culture and her diverse experiences through different cross-media projects and campaigns, she seamlessly blends insight with creativity, making her an all-rounder in digital communication strategies and multimedia storytelling.

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