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The new documentary film and media festival in Berlin

The first Dokumentale takes place from 10 to 20 October. The international documentary film and media festival presents documentary films as well as internationally recognised media projects, VR experiences and readings.


The programme addresses current issues in our society and sheds light on new perspectives. The Dokumentale thus offers a unique festival experience on and off the cinema screen in Berlin, with plenty of room for exchange.

Whether art, environmental protection or social justice: Dokumentale's festival programme ranges from burning contemporary issues to personal stories.

The programme highlights include:

MY FATHERS DIARY by Ado Hasanovic (German premiere) recounts the occupation of Srebrenica using archive videos and diary recordings of his father.

I AM THE RIVER, THE RIVER IS ME by Petr Lom (German premiere) shows the deep connection of Māori tribal leader Ned Tapa and his community with the Whanganui River in Aotearoa, which was the first body of water in the world to be recognised as a legal entity.

In addition to the film highlights, the documentary offers a comprehensive supporting programme:

Under the motto "Non-Fiction Lover", the D'Lounge series invites you to film screenings, discussions and non-fiction readings in unusual locations on six festival evenings, followed by DJ sets or artistic performances. In this way, the festival connects Berlin's nightlife with Berlin's cultural world.

In addition, Dokumentale offers the D'Salon, an interactive discussion forum where visitors can engage in direct dialogue with filmmakers, experts and authors over coffee and cake or an aperitif.

With the D'Hub , the Dokumentale also addresses the international documentary (film) industry. As part of workshops, discussion panels and Germany's first impact pitch - The Good Media Pitch - documentary filmmakers and other non-fictional storytellers will meet decision-makers and civil society actors to develop new collaborations and campaigns that are good for films and good for society.

In July there will be a summer preview with 10 interesting films. More information can be found here.

Additional information