As a film enthusiast with a profound interest in the human condition and historical context, I find these projects incredibly captivating. The unique perspectives they offer on war reporting, social divisions, and colonial history are not only intriguing but also essential in our current times.
The Ji.hlava Documentary Film Festival shared with EbMaster the film projects that the participants of its 2024 Emerging Producers Program are currently developing. These producers were tasked with creating a concise, compelling summary – similar to what you’d say in an elevator ride – for their respective projects.
Since 2010, I’ve been honored to be part of a festival that annually selects 18 promising documentarian producers, 17 from Europe and one from a distinguished non-European nation. These selected individuals receive valuable educational resources, opportunities for networking, and promotional assistance to help them grow in their craft.
The Emerging Producers platform showcases a map displaying over 200 individual profiles, each representing alumni from the program.
I’m thrilled to announce that I’ll be unveiling the upcoming Emerging Producers during the Sarajevo Film Festival this coming Sunday.
Here are the pitches from the 2024 contingent:
Title Suggestion: “The Green Hue of the Flame” (Producers: Cristina Haneș, Isabella Rinaldi, Arya Rothe for NoCut Film Collective; India, Romania, Italy; Directors: Cristina Haneș, Isabella Rinaldi, Arya Rothe)
Genre: Creative documentary
Summary: Somi (aged 37), a native resident, is threatened with eviction from her territory due to the commencement of an iron mine operation. Previously identified as a Naxalite rebel, Somi is now committed to rallying her community in defying this encroachment and combating forced relocation and forest destruction – all without relying on her firearm.
Storyline: Somi, an indigenous woman and ex-revolutionary, stands firm on her values of equality and respect in a vulnerable setting, battling disenchantment and societal injustice. This movie is a follow-up to “A Rifle and a Bag” (awarded Special Mention of the Jury at IFFR 2020).
“The Tale of the Untamed Rose”
Genre: Creative documentary
In the throes of Estonia’s post-Soviet transformation, I found myself unwittingly drawn into an enchanting Mexican telenovela. To my surprise, this fantastical tale resonated deeply with our reserved nation, capturing viewership records that have yet to be surpassed. So, how did a seemingly simple and wild fairytale from afar stir the hearts of Estonians during our tumultuous journey from collectivism to individualism?
Topic: Isn’t modern life more like a daytime drama these days? It seems as if reality TV stars are steering the course of events. This production initially appears to be a documentary, but it gradually transforms into something resembling a Spanish soap opera. We have gathered 300 accounts from ordinary individuals who recall the absurdity of life in early 1990s Estonia during the airing of “Rosa.”
“The Final Outcasts Along the Golden Stream”
Genre: Documentary
Nestled deep within Northern Lapland, isolated from both roads and telecommunication networks, resides a small, tight-knit community of gold miners in Finland. Their tranquil existence is marked by the rhythmic hum of machinery and the soothing silence of nature’s embrace; however, their harmonious lifestyle undergoes a dramatic shift when a fresh mining law compels them to relinquish their traditional ways.
The practice of gold mining in Lapland predates the Klondike Gold Rush by decades, spanning an impressive 160 years. However, this tradition is now coming to a close. Despite this, the miners continue to uphold their unique perspective on life, finding humor and melancholy in it, making it all the more precious and worth experiencing as one chooses.
“Adam’s Tooth”Producer: Mariam Chachia, OpyoDoc (Georgia)
Director: Mariam Chachia, Nik Voigt
Genre: Documentary
Summary: Since 2022, Georgian archaeologist Giorgi Bidzinashvili has been waiting for action on a remarkable discovery – a 1.8-million-year-old tooth found in Orozmani, Georgia. Despite global interest, bureaucratic red tape has kept the fossil “on hold” for two years. With only two chairs, signs, and tea, Bidzinashvili and his fellow researcher persist in a Kafkaesque vigil, unsure of what the future holds for their groundbreaking archaeological find.
As a seasoned archaeologist with over two decades of fieldwork under my belt, I have often found myself in situations where the pursuit of knowledge and truth is met with bureaucratic obstacles. My passion for uncovering our human origins has led me down many arduous paths, and I can attest to the frustration that comes from facing unnecessary red tape.
“Reflexion”Producer: Mónica Hernández Rejón, Pråmfilm AB (Sweden)
Director: Farah Yusuf & MyNa Do
Genre: Creative documentary
The Journey of Artistic Duo Mahoyo: Navigating Identity and Belonging in Segregated Sweden
Topic: Reflexion delves into the intricacies of segregation and sense of belonging in Sweden, a pressing concern given the rise of conservative ideologies and far-right extremism throughout Europe. This film offers a personal, engaging narrative about individuals grappling with this issue, using an imaginative and artistic approach.
As a movie enthusiast, I’d rephrase that title as follows:
Genre: Documentary
As a lifelong explorer of remote corners of the world, I have come across my fair share of mysterious and enigmatic cultures. However, none has left me quite as bewildered and intrigued as the Tasaday tribe, discovered in the dense rainforests of Mindanao, Philippines, back in 1971. The initial excitement surrounding their discovery by National Geographic and other international media was palpable, with many hailing it as a groundbreaking anthropological find.
Theme: This narrative is particularly relevant today. In our modern era dominated by extensive social media, the Tasadays could be seen as precursors to contemporary realities, where facts often blur with propaganda. As such, the Tasaday story serves as a chilling reflection of media’s ability to shape perceptions, and a cautionary tale that truth is rarely straightforward.
“Exiled Theatre – KnAM”
Genre: Documentary
Summary: After Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the KnAM Theatre, active for 37 years, permanently departed and established itself in Lyon, France. Tania, Dima, and German – representing different age groups – strive to redefine themselves on a personal and artistic level as they grapple with the harsh realities of exile.
Focus: Knam underscores the contributions of artists amidst a world context where certain authorities aim to reinstate borders. Currently, Putin has been re-elected in the East, Trump is gearing up for November in the West, and France sees a doubling of ultra-right deputies. It’s crucial to recall that art stands as a formidable force against adversity.
“The film ‘Chess Behind Bars’ is produced by Kaleo La Belle, from La Belle Film in Switzerland, Anita Norfolk of Folk Film in Norway, Eline Van Wees of Basalt Film in the Netherlands, and Dirk Manthey of Dirk Manthey Film in Germany. Ivo Zen directs this production.”
Genre: Documentary
Overview: The intriguing world of chess serves as a platform, revealing diverse characters from prisons worldwide who participate in national and international competitions. As they make each strategic move on the board, they strive to transcend their past mistakes and reclaim control over their futures.
Theme: Globally, prisoners participate in a world chess championship for the imprisoned. As they refine their strategies, we observe varying methods of rehabilitation and see how the valuable life lessons learned through chess may provide inmates with an opportunity for a fresh start or potential release.
“Panic Button” (tentative)
Genre: Documentary film, investigation, personal view
“Panic Button”: Exploring the Courageous Struggle of Journalist Ali Toktakunov for Independent Media in Post-Soviet Kyrgyzstan
As a movie enthusiast, let me share my thoughts on “Panic Button.” This film delves into profound themes such as individual freedom, the importance of public welfare, and the right to free speech, all while exploring the potential compromise of one family’s privacy. It also sheds light on corruption and the lack of accountability, a problem that transcends borders, not just confined to Kyrgyzstan or the post-Soviet region.
“Adult-oriented Film Producers: Rita Balogh, Other Films (Hungary), Gül Togay, Filmsquad (Hungary)
Directors: Rita Balogh, Peter Akar”
Genre: Coming-of-age documentary
As a movie critic, I delve into the profound exploration of personal accountability amidst immaturity in the poignant documentary, “What is our Responsibility in Irresponsibility?” This heartfelt journey takes us on an emotional roller coaster ride through the tumultuous years of adolescence as it chronicles the lives of a close-knit group of high school graduates over a span of five years.
Theme: Over the past five years, witnessing an unprecedented rate of change, we’ve been astonished by the wealth of knowledge gleaned from our characters. This venture promises to shatter the barriers between generations, casting a fresh perspective on our lives, mirroring the sense of unease that arises as the narrative progresses, echoing the unpredictable and frequently tumultuous path of growing up.
“Termites Generally Have Equal-Length Wings”
Genre: Feature fiction/drama
Summary: As they battle a termite invasion threatening their house, Petar and Hana find themselves grappling with the difficult choice of ending an unexpected pregnancy.
In a house that’s under siege by ravenous termites, I find myself, Petar, facing an unexpected pregnancy alongside Hana. As these relentless pests chew through our home, we’re compelled to navigate a complex maze of feelings and decisions, all while grappling with the dual challenges of nature’s wrath and life-altering choices ahead. This film masterfully intertwines personal and emotional turmoil with the tension of our crumbling abode, creating a compelling narrative that resonates deeply.
“Rebuilding the Conflict” – Producers: Oleksandra Kravchenko, Moon Man (Ukraine), Gary Lennon, Plainsong Films (Ireland), Pauline Tran Van Lieu, Hutong Productions (France)
Directors: Vadym Ilkov, Clare Stronge
Genre: Drama
“Mending Conflict: A Look at the Ordinary Ukrainians Caught in the Whirlwind of Journalistic Fixer Work Amidst Their Own War-Torn Homeland”
As a passionate movie enthusiast, I’m excited to share a project that delves into the intriguing world of war reporting, but with a fresh perspective – focusing on the unsung heroes behind the scenes, the local fixers. In an era where truth is questionable and misinformation runs rampant, this film serves as a mirror, shedding light on the challenging reality of bearing witness to conflict zones.
“Production Companies: Matej Sotník, Guča Films from Slovakia, Klára Mamojková and Wanda Kaprálová from Claw in the Czech Republic, Kristian Van der Heyden and Harald House from Belgium
Genre: Creative documentary
In the not-so-distant future, the story “World of Walls” unfolds in a setting where social disparities have reached alarming levels and the climate crisis has intensified. Despite knowing about these impending disasters, people chose to turn a blind eye. The grim truth is unveiled from the perspectives of two young girls residing on either side of the barrier, offering a glimpse into this dystopian society.
Theme: Our science fiction documentary unfolds in an as-yet-unnamed nation, which is under siege due to relentless environmental calamities, mirroring current conditions in South Africa. The affluent inhabit fortified, exclusive sanctuaries boasting robust facilities, while the remainder of society struggles to eke out a living with limited resources.
“Produced by Adrianna Rędzia, the Lumisenta Film Foundation from Poland, and Kristian Van der Heyden, Harald House from Belgium, ‘The Slugs’ is directed by Katarzyna Gondek.”
Genre: Fiction
As a devoted cinephile, I find myself captivated by the intriguing narrative of a young woman named Zuza navigating her way through the unfamiliar terrain of burgeoning capitalism, while grappling with the ethereal presences of her mother, Marry, and grandmother, Zofia. These two influential figures, now spirits, were both shaped by their respective experiences in war and communism.
As a dedicated cinephile, I’m excited to share our upcoming film that follows three generations of compassionate women on a journey of self-discovery. What sets us apart is the exploration of their hidden, complex aspects, which surprisingly becomes the key to connecting more profoundly with themselves and one another. This isn’t just any ghost story; it’s an intimately feminine tale, authentically told by women from their own perspectives.
“House of Shadows” – Produced by Thomas Kaske from Kaske Film (Germany), Boualem Ziani from Libre Image (Algeria), Emilie Dudognon from IDA.IDA (France), and Svetislav Dragomirović from Gray Tree Film (Serbia)
Directed by: Amine Hattou
Genre: Creative documentary, ghostly horror, history, character-driven
“House of Shadows” narrates the stories of two families living in Laghouat, Algeria, revealing how their lives are influenced by the legacy of colonial rule. Using a cinematic approach reminiscent of horror, this film examines the lingering effects of colonialism, underscoring the strength and indomitable spirit of the town’s residents.
“House of Shadows” – A unique blend of horror and documentary delves into Algeria’s colonial pain, offering a novel viewpoint on historical wounds and resilience. We extend a robust invitation for collaboration in our co-production endeavor, aiming to share this profoundly moving and thought-provoking narrative with the global audience.
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2024-08-13 10:49