Global Showcase: 21 Compelling Short and Mid-Length Films from 19 Countries Battle for Glory at Cinema Verite

The upcoming 19th Iran International Documentary Film Festival, also known as “Cinema Verite,” is set to take place in Tehran from December 10 to 16. This prestigious event will feature a remarkable selection of twenty-one short and mid-length documentary films competing in its international competition section. The festival, organized by the Documentary, Experimental, and Animation Film Center (DEFC), showcases a diverse array of productions from 19 different countries, highlighting global perspectives and stories.

The films in competition are primarily productions from 2024 and 2025, promising a fresh and engaging viewing experience. Below is a list of some of the notable documentaries featured at this year’s festival:

• “Where is Home?” – Directed by Lamtiar Simorangkir (Indonesia)
• “Walvis Tale” – Directed by Tim Huebschle (Namibia)
• “Ceasefire” – Directed by Jakob Krese (Slovenia)
• “Climate Art – From Protest to Utopia” – Directed by Mathias Frick (Austria and Germany)
• “When I Came to Your Door” – Directed by Antonio Paoletti (Ethiopia)
• “Voices from the Abyss” – Directed by Irving Serrano and Victor Rejón (Mexico)
• “Photo Developer ST-1” – Directed by Dmitrii Fetisov (Russia)
• “Love Among Ruins” – Directed by Jacek Komorowski (Poland)
• “The Great Thaw” – Directed by Michaela Grill and Karl Leimuex (Canada)
• “My Gray World” – Directed by Petro Aleksowski (Poland)
• “Gamemaster” – Directed by Magda Wyszynska (Denmark)
• “Between Planes” – Directed by Med Amine Elkadhi (Tunisia)
• “A Little Fact” – Directed by Polina Pribytkova and Maxim Pechersky (Russia)
• “Refugees” – Directed by Adam Knott (Australia)
• “White Veil” – Directed by Žiga Ciber (Ireland)
• “Women’s Treasure” – Directed by Haythem & Mohamed Mghuirbi & Ben Romdhane (Tunisia)
• “The Vestiges – Following the Echoes of the Train” – Directed by Luis Manuel (Colombia)
• “Terra Battuta” – Directed by Marzio Breglia (Italy)
• “The Gringo Diary” – Directed by Rodrigo Farias (Chile)
• “Draw Me a Homeland” – Directed by Nour Alkheder (Netherlands)
• “October 17, 1691” – Directed by Pascot Sébastien (France)

One of the festival’s primary objectives is to explore the profound relationship between reality and truth through the medium of documentary filmmaking. By inviting filmmakers from around the world, Cinema Vérité aims to foster a deeper understanding of the diverse narratives that shape our global society.

This year’s festival will take place at the Mellat Cineplex and is directed by Mohammad Hamidi Moghadam, who is known for his commitment to promoting documentary cinema. The festival not only highlights the creative talents of filmmakers but also serves as a platform for important social and cultural discussions, making it a significant event in the international documentary calendar.

As the festival approaches, anticipation builds among film enthusiasts and industry professionals alike. The selection of competing films reflects a wide range of themes and styles, ensuring that attendees will have the opportunity to engage with compelling stories that resonate on a personal and societal level.

For those interested in attending the festival or following the latest updates, the DEFC’s public relations department will provide information on screenings, special events, and guest appearances. The Cinema Verite festival is more than just a showcase for films; it’s a celebration of creativity, storytelling, and the power of documentaries to inspire change and provoke thought.

In conclusion, the 19th Iran International Documentary Film Festival promises to be a remarkable event filled with exceptional films and meaningful dialogues. With a rich lineup of documentaries from around the globe, attendees can look forward to an inspiring week that highlights the art of documentary filmmaking and its impact on society.