Leipzig witnessed on Monday, 27 October, the opening of the 68th edition of the Leipzig International Documentary and Animated Film Festival, which kicked off at the CineStar cinema with the premiere of “Writing Life: Annie Ernaux Through the Eyes of High School Students” by Claire Simon, along with a screening of the short film “Paradaïz” by Matea Radić, an intimate look back at childhood during the war in Bosnia. It was an opening marked by a strong message in defense of the value of culture and the spaces that sustain it.

Christoph Terhechte, in his farewell as festival director, did not hide his concern about the current state of cultural affairs. “Culture is at risk. It is threatened by the lack of resources, political interference, self-censorship and, ultimately, indifference,” he warned, before highlighting the role of festivals like DOK Leipzig in ensuring that essential works reach audiences: “We are proud to help ensure that powerful, socially and politically relevant films that promote a democratic mindset find their way to viewers.”

During the ceremony, Dr. Skadi Jennicke, Leipzig’s Deputy Mayor for Arts and Culture, took the stage before Aline Fiedler, Arts Commissioner at the Saxon Ministry of Science, Culture and Tourism, presented the Saxon Award for the Best Documentary Project by a Female Director, worth 5,000 euros, to Romanian filmmaker Ana Vijdea for her project “nava mamă.” The work follows a transgender teenager who returns to his native village in search of comfort after experiencing violence and abuse. The jury praised its artistic and human strength in exploring intergenerational trauma with “emotional honesty” and a “poetic, multilayered and deeply moving” approach.

The evening continued with a discussion featuring Claire Simon after the screening of the opening film, which portrays French teenagers engaging with the work of Nobel laureate Annie Ernaux in the classroom, reinforcing the idea of culture as a tool for emancipation and critical thinking.

Until 2 November, audiences will be able to enjoy 252 films and XR experiences from 55 countries. Free repeat screenings of selected works will take place at Leipzig Central Station’s East Hall and at the Polish Institute. The Golden and Silver Doves will be awarded on Saturday night, while DOK Stream will offer a selection of films online within Germany from 28 October to 2 November.