Leipzig 2026

Motivation: “The FIPRESCI Jury is honouring a film that achieves the remarkable feat of being both intellectually complex and widely accessible. It tells deeply human stories while simultaneously engaging with political issues that could hardly be more relevant today.

Through an outstanding piece of archival research, the film reconstructs the contradictions of capitalist modernity: progress and decay, migration and isolation, exploitation and emancipation. The story unfolds through the eyes of an eloquent and empathetic protagonist”.

Founded in 1955, DOK Leipzig is the world’s oldest documentary film festival, unique in combining documentary and animated film. As a key hub for networking and industry impact, it has been shaping discourse and addressing urgent contemporary issues for decades. Each year, the festival presents around 200 outstanding films and XR experiences, fostering dialogue and exchange. DOK Industry, Germany’s leading platform for the international documentary sector, welcomes about 2,000 professionals, providing an inspiring, productive environment that promotes meaningful connections and co-operations.