We’re thrilled to announce that for the third consecutive year, we’ve had the pleasure of covering CPH:DOX. In the past, our focus was primarily on the NORDIC:DOX Award category. However, this year we decided to shake things up by selecting a variety of titles that have been generating buzz or piqued our own curiosity to share with you.
Below is a curated list of documentary films we’ve watched and highly recommend keeping an eye on (also, stay tuned for additional noteworthy mentions we’ve encountered).
THE RECOVERY CHANNEL | Director: Ellen Ugelstad | Norway
Synopsis: In The Recovery Channel, filmmaker Ellen Ugelstad takes a bold and imaginative approach to critique the modern psychiatric system, inspired by her brother’s enduring struggle within it. Through the creation of a fictional TV channel led by news anchor Randi Isaksen, Ugelstad opens a space for innovative and critical discussions on mental health care. This experimental platform challenges conventional treatment paradigms and advocates for the rights and humanity of psychiatric patients, offering a fresh perspective on a vital societal issue
Thoughts on the film: This was probably the most difficult film for us to get into out of the collection that we selected. That is not disregard the film – its subject matter is essential but perhaps those who are more familiar with the mental health system in Norway might have been able to connect with this a lot more than we were able to.
CAN’T FEEL NOTHING | Director: David Borenstein | Denmark
Synposis: A provocative exploration of emotional detachment in the digital era, crafted with humour and insight by director David Borenstein, a self-described screen zombie on a quest for recovery. Embarking on a global journey, Borenstein seeks to understand the internet’s impact on our emotions, engaging with a diverse array of individuals from internet trolls to influencers and beyond. This film offers a critical look at our online existence, questioning who controls our feelings and pondering the path to regaining our emotional health.
Thoughts on the film: This piece by Borenstein was a real eye-opener, one that will linger with me for some time. The negative effects of social media—a topic gaining increasing attention—is explored here, but Borenstein takes us on an unexpected journey. Introducing us to a series of seemingly random characters and concepts, the narrative initially diverges from the main theme. Accompanied by a fantastic soundtrack from Jonas Struck, the experience starts off as fun but later instills a sudden distrust of everything we see on the internet. This transition is not only surprising but also profoundly impactful, serving as a stark reminder of the power of digital narratives.
A DANGEROUS BOY | Director: Ole Bendtzen | Denmark
Synopsis: At the age of 12 Sigurdur Thordarson made his debut as a computer hacking by hacking into his school’s website. Two years later and he has leaked documents to Icelandic media exposing corruption in the country’s banking sector. In 2010 Siggi crossing paths with WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange and the pair form an unlikley partnerhsip as they travel the world leaking secret document – but soon things begin to take a turn when Assange turns against him leaving Siggi no choice but to take drastic action.
Thoughts on the film: Venturing into this story, we were blissfully unaware of its background, which made our experience all the more captivating from the very beginning. The synopsis might lead you to anticipate a classic tale of good versus evil, but this expectation is masterfully subverted early on, leaving us utterly engrossed. The narrative unfolds with the kind of depth and engagement reminiscent of a high-quality Netflix documentary—so much so that I wouldn’t be surprised to see it featured on their platform in the future. Ironically, the story even weaves in a thought-provoking discussion about Netflix documentaries during an exchange with Siggi. This moment, among others, underscores the story’s keen awareness of its medium and audience, making it a compellingly meta experience.
ONCE UPON A TIME IN A FOREST | Director: Virpi Suutari | Finland
Synopsis: Young Finnish activists Ida and Minka champion the preservation of their country’s expansive forests, challenging the timber industry’s giants and bridging generational divides within their own families. Their journey from protest to negotiation illustrates not only the clash between economic interests and environmental conservation but also the cultural shift needed to embrace biodiversity as crucial for the planet’s future. Filmmaker Virpi Suutari weaves a politically urgent narrative with humanity and humour, offering a profound tribute to nature and a hopeful look at the activism shaping our world.
Thoughts on the film: Throughout the years, we’ve encountered numerous documentaries centered on grassroots battles against corporate giants, with varying degrees of success. This film emerges as a standout, striking all the right chords primarily because of the individuals it portrays. Their genuine dedication shines through, devoid of any pretense of superiority or mere rebellion, making their cause all the more compelling.
What further elevates this documentary is its breath-taking cinematography. It engulfs you in the very landscapes our protagonists strive to protect, creating a visceral connection to their fight. Complemented by a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack, the film achieves a rare harmony between visual storytelling and musical artistry, making it an exceptional piece of documentary filmmaking.
MAGIC MUD | Director: Jakob Gottschau | Denmark
Synposis: Greenlandic geologist Minik Rosing explores the potential of Greenland’s ‘glacial rock flour’ to revolutionize agriculture and address global inequality. His theory suggests this unique mud could significantly enhance crop yields in tropical countries, where soil quality often lags behind more temperate regions. Joining forces with a team of international experts, Rosing’s journey from humble mud collection to global field tests and exhibitions illustrates a promising venture into sustainable farming and its potential impact on global food security.
Thoughts on the film: Magic Mud initially challenges viewers with its heavy scientific focus, which might overwhelm those not familiar with the topic. However, as the film progresses, it compellingly unveils the experiment’s potential to revolutionize sustainable farming. The shift from complex science to showcasing its real-world impact on agriculture captures the essence of innovation. Despite a dense start, Magic Mud ultimately emerges as an inspiring and positive vision for the future.
AS THE TIDE COMES IN | Director: Juan Palacios & Husum Johannesen | Denmark
Synopsis: follows the lives of the 27 residents on Mandø, a Danish island in the group off the west coast of Jutland. Despite being constantly battered by storms and flooding as a result of climate change, the residents stubbornly remain on the island, continuing a tradition that has lasted for generations.
Thoughts on the film: The cinematography in this film is simply breathtaking, elevating it to an unforgettable experience, especially when paired with an immersive audio landscape through headphones. Every sound, from thunder rumbles to the distinct calls of birds, the unique timbre of a key character’s voice, the patter of rain, and the gentle waves against a vanishing island, wraps you in a world that’s at once poetic and comical, yet profoundly heartbreaking. This film has left a lasting impression, lingering in the mind long after the credits roll.
A NEW KIND OF WILDERNESS | Director: Silje Evensmo Jaconsen | Sweden
Synopsis: A New Kind of Wilderness captures the poignant journey of the Payne family, who lived an idyllic, self-sufficient life in the Norwegian wilderness until the mother’s unexpected death challenges their existence. Forced to confront the modern world and the complexities of grief, the family navigates the delicate balance between their radical lifestyle and the realities of societal integration. This moving film explores the resilience of familial love and the wisdom found in facing life’s inevitable dilemmas.
Thoughts on the film: A New Kind of Wilderness” captivates with its stunning cinematography and engaging narrative, making us instantly fall in love with both. The film delicately balances humor, reflection, and heartbreak in a way that feels utterly genuine. Unlike some documentaries where you might find yourself eager for it to end, this film makes you cherish every moment spent with its subjects. It shares this rare quality with gems like “Once Upon A Time In A Forest” and “As The Tide Comes In,” leaving you genuinely saddened as the credits roll. Achieving this connection signifies true success in filmmaking.
PHANTOMS OF THE SIERRA MADE | Director: Håvard Bustnes | Norway, Finland, United States & Mexico
Synposis: In pursuit of a childhood dream, Lars K. Andersen and filmmaker Håvard Bustnes embark on a Western adventure in Mexico to find a lost Apache tribe, inspired by the legendary explorer Helge Ingstad. Their journey, envisioned as a tribute to classic American road movies, unexpectedly evolves into a profound critique of white adventurer mythology. Joined by Pius, the great-grandson of Apache warrior Geronimo, their expedition confronts them with their own cultural misconceptions. As their project teeters on the edge, a pivotal discovery in Oslo reshapes their quest, transforming it into a thought-provoking exploration of belonging and self-awareness.
Thoughts on the film: The cinematography is stunning, and the film unfolds almost like a Nordic Noir set in the wild west. Yet, what truly grips you is its subject matter; the narrative takes turns that are unexpected from the outset. Following Lars K. Andersen, a character who might not be immediately likable due to his relentless pursuit of answers, leads to some intriguing scenarios that raise thought-provoking questions. Norwegian director Håvard Bustnes excels in keeping the film engaging especially when Lars teams up with the fascinating and knowledgeable Pius, the story takes on an even more compelling dimension!
Nordic Watchlist were covering CPH:DOX Film Festival digitally and are looking forward to sharing further interviews with the talent involved in the films.
