Delving into the compelling narrative potential of cinema and storytelling as catalysts for political change: how do we address the pervasive issue of missing persons? Through this discussion we try to underline the critical role of creative narratives in combating political inertia: a pressing issue given the inadequacy of current efforts to locate and identify the thousands of victims who have been swallowed up in the void of disappearance. Panelists TBA Date: Saturday, 5 August Time: 17:00 Venue: The Garden of Shani Efendi Gallery
Drawing parallels from the world of documentary filmmaking, we can see how the evolution of technology has transformed the way we tell stories about ourselves. In the early days of documentary filmmaking, the process was largely observational, with filmmakers capturing life as it happened. However, as the medium evolved, so did the techniques. The panel will explore the techniques used in the creation of digital self-portraits and self-documentation and will also discuss the ethical considerations involved in this process, and the impact of digital self-representation on our understanding of identity and reality. Panelists: Viera Čákanyová , filmmaker (Notes From Eremocene) Armel Hostiou, filmmaker (The Other Profile) Kit Vincent, filmmaker/producer (Red Herring) Moderated by Dea Gjinovci filmmaker & DokuTalks co-curator Date: Sunday, 6 August Time: 17:00 Venue: The Garden of Shani Efendi Gallery
A look into the evolving landscape of filmmaking, where traditional boundaries are being pushed, and new forms of storytelling are emerging. The panel discussion will explore how artists are broadening the spectrum of storytelling devices to reach younger and marginalized audiences, sometimes leading to the regain of political consciousness. Our panelists will also discuss the impact of the Internet era on filmmaking. The digital age has not only provided filmmakers with new tools and platforms, but it has also changed the way we consume and interact with media. This has had a profound impact on the art of storytelling, and has opened up new possibilities for hybrid mediums and cross-platform storytelling. Panelists: Mateo Ybarra, Industry Coordinator (Visions du Réel) Flaka Kokolli, filmmaker & animator Diana Malaj, artivist Kate Stonehill, filmmaker (Phantom Parrot) Moderated by Dea Gjinovci filmmaker & DokuTalks co-curator Date: Monday, 7 August Time: 17:00 Venue: The Garden of Shani Efendi Gallery
This unique session offers a rare glimpse into the collaborative relationships that are at the heart of filmmaking, and the creative synergy that drives the cinematic storytelling process. In the world of filmmaking, collaboration is key. The director may be the visionary behind a film, but it is through their collaboration with the editor, producer or the cinematographer that this vision comes to life. These relationships form the core of filmmaking, the behind-the-scenes partnerships that shape the look, feel, and narrative flow of a film. Panelists: TBA Date: Tuesday, 8 August Time: 17:00 Venue: The Garden of Shani Efendi Gallery Panelists: Boris Garavini (producer, Knit’s Island), Guilhem Causse (co-director, Knit’s Island), Ada Solomon (producer, Arsenie an amazing after life,) Alexandru Solomon (director, Arsenie an amazing after life)
A discussion about the liberating portrayals that the female gaze create and is also sometimes burdened with, featuring a remarkable panel representing a wide range of female subjectivities, highlighting the powerful role of women in shaping film narratives and societal perceptions. Panelists: Valerie Massadian, filmmaker Jude Chehab, filmmaker (Q) Chloe Abrahms, filmmaker (The Taste of Mango) Rina Kika, Human Rights Lawyer and Researcher Moderated by Dea Gjinovci filmmaker & DokuTalks co-curator Date: Wednesday, 9 August Time: 17:00 Venue: The Garden of Shani Efendi Gallery
“Can Short Filmmaking Be a Career?" is a question that many emerging filmmakers grapple with. Short films are often seen as stepping stones, a trampoline of sorts, to a career in feature filmmaking. And indeed, they can be. However, it's important to remember that short filmmaking is not just a means to an end. It is an art form in its own right, with its own unique demands and rewards. A panel discussion that will be seeking to expand horizons, inspire, challenge and enlighten on new possibilities in the short film industries. Panelists: Douwe Dijkstra, filmmaker (Neighbour Abdi) Nina Rodríguez, film programmer (Guanajuato IFF) Mathieu Janssen, film programmer (Go Short) Sanne Jehoul, film programmer (Glasgow Short Film Festival) Moderated by Dea Gjinovci filmmaker & DokuTalks co-curator Date: Thursday, 10 August Time: 17:00 Venue: The Garden of Shani Efendi Gallery
One of the key topics we will explore today is the art of curating films for festival programming. This is a complex process that goes beyond simply selecting films; it involves understanding the festival's audience, identifying emerging trends, and creating a balanced and diverse program that resonates with viewers. For filmmakers, understanding the selection process is crucial to successfully submitting films to festivals. Our panelists will share their insights on what they look for in submissions, and offer advice on best practices for filmmakers. This is a rare opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of what festival programmers are looking for, and how to make your film stand out in a sea of submissions. Panelists: TBA Date: Friday, 11 August Time: 17:00 Venue: The Garden of Shani Efendi Gallery