Will Foster-Grundy – Dethroned

Will Foster-Grundy (Austria), Dethroned, Doc Feature – “Dethroned” isn’t just about the perils facing big cats; it’s a profound meditation on our relationship with the natural world. Through the lens of photojournalist Aaron Gekoski, we embark on a seven-year journey from the shamanic rituals of the Peruvian Amazon to the treacherous trails of the Himalayas and into the dark corridors of Laos’ illegal and terrifying wildlife trade. As Gekoski captures interactions with these ancient icons, the film asks a crucial question: what happens to humanity if we sever the bonds that tie us to nature? This beautifully crafted documentary transcends its focus on big cats, urging us to consider the broader implications of our actions. When a king falls, the entire kingdom trembles—and the same holds true for the natural world. With deft direction, thoughtful research, stunning cinematography and an emotional punch, it is a compelling and stirring call to action, reminding us that our fate is inextricably linked to the health of the planet and all its creatures. Terra Mater Studios GmbH

Taira Malaney – Turtle Walker

Taira Malaney (India), Turtle Walker, Doc Feature – “Turtle Walker” is an inspiring documentary that captures the extraordinary journey of Satish Bhaskar, a man who walked nearly every inch of India’s coastline in the late 1970s to discover and protect the nesting beaches of endangered sea turtles. Spanning the coastlines of India and the Andaman and Nicobar islands, Bhaskar’s journey unraveled the mysteries of these elusive creatures. After the 2004 tsunami, his mission became even more urgent as he grappled with the question: What happens to sea turtles when their nesting grounds disappear? With superb pacing, mesmerizing visuals and emotionally touching interviews, “Turtle Walker” lends an almost poetic feel to Bhaskar’s story. This powerful film serves as both a call to action and a beacon of hope, reminding us of the vital connection between humanity and the natural world. Executive Producer Oscar-winner James Reed, Producer Emmy-nominee Zoya Akhtar, Music Emmy-winner Nainita Desai. Emahof Films.  HHMI Tangled Bank Studios

Sarah Nörenberg – Orca – Black & White Gold

Sarah Nörenberg (Austria), Orca – Black & White Gold, Doc Feature – A gripping docu-thriller that exposes the illegal global trade in endangered orcas, fueled by business practices rooted in SeaWorld’s model. With unprecedented access to activists, former trainers, and journalists, the film uncovers the shocking truth behind this illicit market. An investigative journalist reveals the Russian orca trade feeding into China’s billion-dollar aquarium industry, prompting a global outcry. This leads to the dramatic rescue of over 100 orcas and belugas from Russia’s notorious “whale jail.” As a daring release mission unfolds, a former trainer goes undercover in China to reveal the harsh realities of captivity. The film offers a rare and harrowing look at marine exploitation, highlighting the clash between ruthless businessmen and brave activists. It showcases the rising demand for orcas in China and the devastating impact on their populations, making a powerful case for their protection. With exceptional research, tight pacing, and edge-of-your-seat undercover footage. Written by Emmy-winner Mark Monroe. Executive Producer Oscar-nominee Laura Nix.

Manfred Oldenburg – The Last Taboo

Manfred Oldenburg (Germany), The Last Taboo (Das letzte Tabu), Doc Feature – A powerful doc that delves into the rarely discussed subject of homosexuality in professional men’s football. Through candid first-person interviews with players who have come out publicly, and the poignant stories of their families, the film explores the intense inner and outer conflicts these athletes face. It captures the painful choice between self-denial and liberation, set against a backdrop of rampant homophobia in the sport. Beautifully filmed and thoughtfully directed, it strikes the perfect balance of emotional tones, blending raw emotion with insightful commentary. The pacing and craft are impeccable. This film offers a compelling and deeply moving look at the struggles and courage of those breaking down barriers in sports with one of that world’s most controversial subjects.

Sandra Lopez Cabrera – Langobardi – Grimoaldo, the First Friulian King

Sandra Lopez Cabrera (Italy), Langobardi – Grimoaldo, the First Friulian King, Doc Short – This documentary delves into the extraordinary life of Grimoaldo, a noble heir from the Alboino lineage, born in Cividale around 600 A.D., who ascended to become the first Lombard king of Friulian descent. Through Grimoaldo’s epic story, the film offers a captivating exploration of the 7th-century Peninsula and Friuli. Presented as an immersive cinematic experience, the documentary provides audiences with rich historical and ethnographic insights into Lombard heritage.  Brilliant research, deft-direction and expert analyses, paired with meticulously crafted reenactments, vividly resurrect the legacy of this pivotal and fascinating era.

Rebecca Cammisa (Austria), Yours in Freedom, Bill Baird, Doc Feature- From Oscar-nominee Cammisa, it chronicles Baird’s groundbreaking work as a reproductive rights reformer from the 1970’s, securing landmark Supreme Court legislation for birth control access amid fierce opposition. His legacy confronts today’s erosion of personal liberties and inspires 16-year-old activist Jada to advocate for today’s reproductive rights.

Sharon Yamato (USA), One Fighting Irishman, Doc Short – Narrated by actor / activist George Takei, this meticulously researched doc chronicles San Francisco civil rights attorney Wayne Collins’s 23-year legal battle to restore citizenship to over 5,000 Japanese Americans who were forced to renounce their rights under duress at Tule Lake, the worst of WWII’s ten internment camps.

Paul Kemp (Canada), Searching for Satoshi: The Mysterious Disappearance of the Bitcoin Creator, Doc Feature – A captivating global detective story investigating the disappearance of the inventor of Bitcoin, a secretive character who goes by the pseudonym “Satoshi Nakamoto.” Exploring the clues Nakamoto left behind, the film aims to uncover the main candidates: two dead, and four alive.

Harriet Marin Jones (France), King of Kings: Chasing Edward Jones, Doc Feature – Produced by Oscar-nominee Quincy Jones and Emmy-winner Debbie Allen, this doc tells the gripping story of Edward Jones, a charismatic African American who thrived in Depression-era Chicago. Featuring a riveting mix of Policy Kings, love, violence, and mafia, it offers fascinating insights through engaging interviews and creative visuals.

Carlos Bruno Cejas (Argentina), Ayahuasca Now, Doc Feature – Compelling and thought-provoking, this doc follows 5 men and 2 women military veterans who journey to the Peruvian Amazon for shamanic ceremonies to heal PTSD. Frustrated by traditional treatments, they face their demons in the jungle, seeking peace through ancient rituals and advocating for unconventional methods. Beautifully crafted and fascinating.

Aracely “Arcie” Merced Chapa (USA), Acequias: The Legacy Lives On, Doc Feature – A visually stunning doc explores New Mexico’s historic acequias through the eyes of farmers, advocates, and scholars. It reveals their current challenges, such as climate change and water rights transfers, their role in local food systems, and their economic impact on rural communities. Beautiful, informative, and inspiring.

Elisabeth Harris (USA), Stand UP, Speak OUT – Reproductive Rights: Know Your Rights, Doc Short – This gripping short documentary chronicles over 200 years of American women’s struggle for reproductive rights. From lacking control over their own bodies to securing contraception and abortion access, and up to the Dobbs v. Jackson case, it highlights the ongoing battle for reproductive autonomy. A timely and powerful film.

Joshua Michael Wenner (USA), The Gift of Grief, Doc Feature – After his brother’s overdose, Joshua wrestles with years of guilt and confusion. Determined to grasp the true meaning of grief, he spends a decade interviewing experts on trauma and healing, exploring how families cope with loss, creating programs to help others and revealing the unexpected gifts that can arise from pain.

Click for AWARD OF EXCELLENCE winners

Click for AWARD OF MERIT winners

Click  for AWARD OF RECOGNITION winners