Festival Diary Day 7

Last night, we had the opportunity to dive into the archives of queer cinema. “Warm Film” traces the history of queer representation in (post-)Yugoslav cinema, taking us on a unique journey through time. During the Q&A with director Dragan Jovićević and producer/editor Natasa Pavlovic, they discussed what it means to see queer identities, often made invisible, on the big screen. If this has sparked your curiosity, you're in luck—there’s a second screening tonight. You'll also have the chance to ask Dragan Jovićević and Natasa Pavlovic your questions. Get your tickets here

Katarina Stankovic, the director of one of our competition films “The Tempest of Neptun”, expressed her joy at receiving so many audience questions after the screening. As part of the D'Lounge series, which brings films to special venues, the film was shown in "Aquarium," an inclusive space for connection, networking, and collaboration. In sync with the rhythm of the waves, the documentary tells a story of sustainability and the solidarity of a community collectively reflecting on how tourism might change their home island. Get your tickets for another screening on October 20 here

Yesterday, a full day of events took place at the festival center as part of the D’Hub. The D'Hub is a Dokumentale format focusing on growth and exchange among filmmakers, journalists, and activists. Together, we aim to explore new ways of documentary storytelling. The first talk of the day was titled "Collecting Memories," where Ado Hasanović, Barbara Kurowska, François-Xavier Drouet, and Monika Preischl discussed the challenges of working with archival material.

These are our tips for today:

Tonight is THE night. Our esteemed jury will be honouring one documentary and one virtual reality project. Our curators will also be highlighting one book and one podcast that were of special significance to them. We are curious to see what the picks will be and are looking forward to a wonderful evening!

As part of the Award Ceremony, we are thrilled to be screening ‘Hollywoodgate’ by Ibrahim Nash'at. But no worries if you can’t make it—you also will be able to watch this extremely important film on 20 October at City Kino Wedding.The Guardian has described it as ‘a fascinating insight into the Taliban’s insular world’, and it is crucial that we take a closer look, try to understand, and support the people protesting oppression—namely the women who have been deprived of their rights. As Meryl Streep put it poignantly, ‘A squirrel has more rights than a girl in Afghanistan.’

But for those who can’t join us at today’s award ceremony, we have some more great tips for tonight! 

Meet the Director: You have the unique opportunity to meet Karl Malakunas, who has joined us from Hong Kong to present ‘Delikado’. This insightful film tells the story of Bobby, Tata, and Nieves, who risk their lives in a David versus Goliath-style struggle to stop politicians and businessmen from destroying the Philippines’ ‘last ecological frontier’.

 17 Oct, 5.00 p.m., Sputnik Kino

We’ve also got you covered if you’re searching for something lighter and more entertaining!

Join the dancing scientists in ‘Surfing Einstein’. Produced by legendary German musician Dieter Meier, this film is one of a kind. Physicists tell their story through dance and their unique body language, illustrating Einstein’s theory of relativity. The film team will be present and would love to celebrate with you at their premiere in Sputnik's beautiful bar above the rooftops of Berlin.

17 Oct, 7.00 p.m., Sputnik Kino 

If that is too spontaneous for you, let’s look ahead to the last festival weekend! Make sure not to miss our talk Changing the Narrative—Presenting Women in the Media on 18 October or the ‘Draw for Change’ series, in particular the world premiere of ‘Draw for Change—Democracy Under Siege’, which, on 19 October, will be offering unique insights into US politics just before the election. And if you are looking for some really good music, don't miss ‘Harder Than the Rock’ at the legendary YAAM—our last D’Lounge event.

We look forward to celebrating with you!