Groundbreaking Lineup at Copenhagen Docs Fest CPH:DOX Spotlights Human Rights

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Preparing for its 2025 event, the organizers of CPH:DOX have revealed an ambitious lineup featuring over 200 films that highlight human rights issues. The program is centered around the theme “Right Here, Right Now,” emphasizing the urgent need for action in our current society.

CPH:DOX sets new records with an impressive 94 world premieres, including a whopping 68 full-length films, marking the most extensive lineup in the festival’s history. This growth underscores the growing influence of CPH:DOX on the global documentary scene.

For three years running, all significant competition films are debuts on a global scale. Although this isn’t a set requirement, artistic director Niklas Engstrøm shares with EbMaster, “The fact that prominent directors decide to introduce their movies here indicates the growth our festival has experienced.” He further notes that moving the festival from November to March in 2017 enhanced its international reputation, making it the preferred European platform for U.S. filmmakers following Sundance.

Titles for upcoming Sundance films at CPH:DOX feature “Mr. Nobody vs. Putin,” “Love’s Matchmaking” and “The Zodiac Killer Investigation.

In addition to the films premiering outside of competition, we have “Animality” by Ai Weiwei, “Observer” by Ian Cheney, “Lost for Words” by Hannah Papacek Harper, “Everest Dark” by Jereme Watt, and “Climate in Therapy” by Nathan Grossman.

This year’s focus on human rights wasn’t just a random choice: a fresh poll shows that more than half of Danish people can’t identify a single specific human right – an alarming figure given the current unstable global political situation.

Engstrøm argues that human rights have consistently been a cornerstone in documentary filmmaking. However, as worldwide politics grow increasingly unstable, it becomes increasingly vital to delve deeper into these topics, not just focusing on individual rights but examining them within the broader context of global affairs.

Considering the significant actions being taken by influential forces from both the East and the West, it’s crucial now more than ever to emphasize rights – not merely personal freedoms, but also the rights that underpin the foundation of our global system, including those of nations and states.

As a global observer, it seems we’re moving towards a time where adherence to the international legal system established post World War II and the Cold War might wane. It’s been quite revealing for many to witness the current U.S. administration’s apparent disregard for international law, as exemplified in cases like Greenland, Panama, or Gaza.

The political perspective is evident in choices such as “The Helsinki Effect” by Arthur Franck (“The Hypnotist”), a novel that offers fresh insight into the events preceding the end of the Cold War, and the festival’s inaugural film, Tommy Gulliksen’s “Facing War,” a powerful drama depicting NATO’s involvement in the Russia-Ukraine conflict as seen through the actions of its secretary general Jens Stoltenberg.

As a film enthusiast, I’m thrilled to share that the festival is back, bringing a fresh addition to its accolades – the Human:Rights Award. The 2024 recipient of this prestigious category, Shiori Itō, has now earned an Oscar nomination for her work in “Black Box Diaries.” This just goes to show how impactful and powerful cinema can be when it tackles human rights issues head-on. Can’t wait to see what the future holds for this talented filmmaker!

2021’s guest roster boasts a selection of trailblazing figures shaping today’s cultural landscape. Among them are acclaimed Chinese artist and activist Ai Weiwei, Ukrainian feminist Inna Shevchenko, Bulgarian investigative journalist Christo Grozev, and Republican critic Adam Kinzinger who is known for his opposition to former President Trump.

I’ll be appearing at a human rights discussion and unveiling the first showing of my new documentary, “Animality.” This powerful film, collaboratively created with filmmakers worldwide, sheds light on the harsh reality of animal abuse. Additionally, the festival will showcase Maxim Derevianko’s “Ai Weiwei’s Turandot,” which documents Ai Weiwei’s groundbreaking debut as an opera director in Rome.

Additionally, Israeli architect and researcher, Eyal Weizman – renowned for his work using spatial analysis and technology to uncover instances of human rights abuses and state violence – is set to join a discussion post the debut screening of Danae Elon’s “Rule of Stone.” This film delves into the role architecture plays in enforcing segregation and infringing upon human rights.

At CPH:DOX, renowned comedian and filmmaker Jerrod Carmichael is set to make an appearance as part of its ongoing partnership with HBO. Additionally, Twiggy, a legendary 1960s fashion icon known as the world’s first supermodel, will be in attendance for the premiere of Sadie Frost’s documentary titled after her own name.

This year’s lineup boasts a fascinating assortment of music documentaries within the Sound & Vision section, which not only pays tribute to music but delves into the cultural and political factors influencing the musicians’ journeys. One standout pick for Engstrøm is “It’s Never Over: Jeff Buckley,” a poignant biography directed and produced by Amy Berg that offers an up-close look at the life and enduring legacy of the late singer-songwriter.

warren ellis, a long-term associate of nick cave, is set to showcase Justin Kurzel’s film “Ellis Park,” which focuses on his wildlife sanctuary in Sumatra. Additionally, Ellis will perform a live concert as part of the event. Due to high demand, organizers are considering adding an additional performance.

Distinctive music documentaries span a broad spectrum, such as “Becoming Madonna” by Michael Ogden, which delves into the incredible journey that catapulted the Material Girl to stardom. Similarly, Grace Lee and Patty Ahn’s film, titled “Forever We Are Young,” focuses on the K-pop sensation BTS. Lastly, Niloufar Taghizadeh’s documentary, “Googoosh: Made of Fire,” recounts the remarkable career of the renowned Iranian singer.

Pondering over his 2023 declaration to establish CPH:DOX as the globe’s premier documentary festival, I, [Your Name], acknowledge the event’s extraordinary expansion. Yet, I remain steadfast in my efforts to safeguard its unique, intimate essence that sets it apart from others.

One major issue we face is finding a method to expand while maintaining sustainability, and ensuring both our attendees and filmmakers feel appreciated and connected. After all, without their contributions, we wouldn’t exist,” he notes.

This year’s full competition lineup and the juries are here.

CPH:DOX kicks off on March 19 and runs through 30.

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2025-02-26 11:19