Industry - Documentary Edge

Forum 2023

An annual industry event that brings together local and international screen industries. It offers seminars, panels, masterclasses and networking opportunities.

At Doc Edge Forum, we are committed to inspiring documentary filmmakers to reach new heights and explore topics that have never been explored before. Our mission is to push boundaries and support filmmakers unafraid to take risks and go where no one else has gone.

Our cutting-edge programme is designed to keep you ahead of the latest news and trends in the documentary world while connecting you with other passionate filmmakers and industry leaders. And the best part? You won’t even have to leave New Zealand to do it all.

This year, the Forum was held in Auckland at the following:

Friday, 2 June EMA Conference Centre, 145 Khyber Pass Road, Grafton

Saturday, 3 June Ellen Melville Centre, 2 Freyberg Place, CBD

Over the two days, Doc Edge became the epicentre of all things documentary, bringing together key players worldwide. There was the opportunity to observe Doc Edge Pitch, where our 2023 pitch finalists presented their latest and greatest documentary projects from New Zealand and abroad unveiled to an impressive lineup of decision-makers.

Programme

This year’s programme offered four main topics: Disruptive Documentary, The Dark Side of Documentary, Authenticity in the Age of Deepfakes and Hasta La Vista Baby – the Impact of Cancel Culture on Arts & Culture

Disruptive Documentary challenges filmmakers to experiment with new and unconventional approaches to documentary filmmaking, pushing the boundaries of the genre to create more immersive and engaging experiences.
The Dark Side of Documentary explores the potential ethical issues in documentary filmmaking, such as obtaining consent, representation, and the role of the filmmaker in shaping the narrative.
Authenticity in the Age of Deepfakes will explore the potential risks and benefits of using new technologies in their films and develop strategies for ensuring the authenticity and integrity of their documentaries.
Hasta La Vista Baby – the Impact of Cancel Culture of Arts & Culture is a topic that explores the effects of cancel culture and “woke” ideology on arts and culture, specifically in the context of filmmaking.

These topics can challenge filmmakers to think outside the box, push the boundaries of the genre, and explore new paradigms in documentary storytelling. They can inspire filmmakers to take risks, challenge the status quo, and engage with the pressing social and cultural issues of our time in new and innovative ways.

In addition, there will be a ANZ Co-production Workshop to explore a practical session to explore the hurdles of a successful Australia-NZ coproduction and how to successfully navigate past them. Featuring experienced filmmakers along with NZ Film Commission and Screen Australia, this is a must attend for all filmmakers.

Forum Passes

A Forum pass provides access for the full 2 days, and includes morning/afternoon teas and lunch. All prices are in NZD.

Doc Edge Academy members, which is free to join, are entitled to discounted price on forum passes.
To join as a member, head to the JOIN ACADEMY box below.