The DokuBaku International Documentary Film Festival is proud to announce the winners of the DokuShorts category.
We are all creators — each of us carries a spark of creativity. I firmly believe that every journey into the vast universe of art begins with a first step, and in cinema, that step is the short film. With your debut short, you as a filmmaker begin to uncover your potential and gain the confidence to take the next leap. That is why our festival places special value on short films and this category in particular.

And now, meet the winners of the DokuShorts section of DokuBaku 2025.
We warmly congratulate them and wish them success on their creative journeys — may their future works enlighten audiences and awaken a shared sense of cosmic citizenship.

Main DokuShorts Award — iMystic

Grape Season | Ebrahim Hesari | Iran | 0:25:00

Jury Statement:

“Grape Season,” directed by Ebrahim Hesari, stands out as a delicate and profound reflection of the human spirit during the difficult times of the COVID-19 pandemic. The film beautifully balances the fear of death with the resilience of hope. Through gentle humor and touching moments, it uncovers the enduring warmth of human connection even in isolation. Quiet yet powerful, “Grape Season” reminds us that compassion and care open the gates to the divine — a message that deeply resonates with this year’s festival theme, 5DWORLDHYPERDIVINEMATR3X.

Special Jury Mention

Siam Pronti Alla Morte | Basilio Maritano Sailer | Germany | 0:29:57

Jury Statement:

This film delves into profound questions of life, death, destiny, and self-determination. Unfolding at the intersection of German and Italian cultures, it creates a unique atmosphere where identity and belonging collide. At its core is a young man caught between two worlds, facing a life-defining choice. By blending elements of drama and thriller, the film builds tension where every decision carries weight, exploring the clash between traditional German values and emotionally charged Italian culture.

Matin | Sam Soleymani | Iran | 0:29:46

Jury Statement:

“Matin” is a compelling work that stands out for its effective use of voiceover and authentic documentary style. Each scene is strongly composed, staying true to the documentary genre. Set in a remote shelter for stray dogs, the film uses this space as a metaphor for family and societal issues, provoking thoughtful questions in the viewer. Through both its light and dark energies, “Matin” encourages reflection on personal and collective reform.

We sincerely thank the DokuShorts Jury — Leyli Salayeva, Kazuhiko Mizushina, and Ali-Sattar Guliyev — for their dedication, thoughtful insights, and hard work.