Ji.hlava International Documentary Film Festival

The Ji.hlava International Documentary Film Festival (IDFF) is a leading annual event held every October in Jihlava, Czech Republic.
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    About Ji.hlava International Documentary Film Festival

    The Ji.hlava International Documentary Film Festival (IDFF) is a leading annual event held every October in Jihlava, Czech Republic. Founded in 1997 by high school students led by Marek Hovorka, who remains its director, the festival has grown into one of the largest celebrations of auteur documentary cinema in Central and Eastern Europe. Ji.hlava IDFF is dedicated to fostering creative documentary filmmaking and providing a platform for both emerging and renowned filmmakers to share their works.

    The festival features a rich program, including:

    • Opus Bonum for world documentaries.
    • Czech Joy for domestic films.
    • Fascinations for experimental cinema.
    • Short Joy for short documentaries.
    • Testimonies, which highlights films addressing political, historical, and environmental issues.

    In addition to screenings, Ji.hlava IDFF is known for its industry-focused initiatives, such as Emerging Producers, Festival Identity, and Conference Fascinations, which encourage professional development and networking within the global documentary community.

    The Impact of Ji.hlava International Documentary Film Festival

    Ji.hlava IDFF has gained international recognition for premiering groundbreaking films and championing innovative storytelling. The 2022 edition showcased 376 films, including 95 world premieres, emphasizing its dedication to fresh perspectives and diversity.

    In 2023, standout winners included:

    • “Ship” by Elvis Lenić (Opus Bonum – Best World Documentary).
    • “Photophobia” by Ivan Ostrochovský and Pavol Pekarčík (Best Czech Documentary).

    The festival also honors significant contributors to cinema. Hungarian director Béla Tarr was recognized in 2023 for his extraordinary impact on global cinema.

    Ji.hlava IDFF supports emerging talent through programs like Emerging Producers and Conference Fascinations, which promote new voices and experimental approaches to documentary filmmaking.

    Legacy

    In 2024, Ji.hlava IDFF expanded its duration to ten days, reflecting its growing prominence and its commitment to offering an even more immersive and comprehensive experience for filmmakers and audiences alike.

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