Tonight, we honor a film that captures a haunting yet profoundly moving narrative with both poetic visuals and evocative storytelling. The composition is exquisitely balanced, reflecting the director’s deeply personal connection to the subject matter. This film takes us into the harrowing world of a tortured man in prison, presenting a story that is not only deeply intimate but also universally resonant. Through this powerful portrayal, we are invited to explore the rawest depths of human emotion and the enduring, seared-in values that define us. It is our privilege to present this award to a work that so masterfully blends artistry with empathy and truth.

Documentary that speaks with audience through atmosphere, image decision and editing,in that way of documentary films cinema needs now. Character is delusional, controversial but in the meantime is fresh, real and honest, like film itself. Image and Edit decisions were quite experimental and creative, that helps viewer to dive deep down in the story.

SPECIAL MENTION

Absolutely independent and low budget picture, that looks like normal buget film, in fact made with director's budget. Festival wants mention this documentary for brave and difficult production process. Final product, that doesn't feel like independent and low budget is the biggest achievement. Terrifying and touching story that is well-done documentary ode to Hero.

SPECIAL JURY AWARD

The Jury of DokuBaku 2024 has decided to award a special mention to the film 'Mother of Snow Cranes' for finding an intriguing cinematic form to tell the extraordinary story of the main character's life. We fell in love with Ellen, and her cinematic portrait gave us hope that a person can rise and emerge from the deepest traumas even stronger, proud, and unbroken.

For showing the audience the survival in the wilderness through empathy and for the filmmaker's raw and quirky vision of capturing this intriguing protagonist

SPECIAL MENTION

For the courage of the filmmaker to tell his personal story through an emotional and cathartic process.

SPECIAL MENTION

For its joyful message of future, preservation of family told through the means of home videos.

SPECIAL MENTION

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Jury selected this overwhelming documentary film, because it tells in strong visual pictures and original narration the inspiring and encouraging story of a men overcoming struggles and facing adventures.

Well-balance made and told story that touches you. The structure of seasons is realized through each character of story. Each character was portrayed in the right place, time and mood of the season. Emotionally it's very strong and touching.

The Jury of DokuBaku 2024 awards the Grand Prix to the film 'Faces of Agata' for its beautifully crafted portrait of an extraordinary artist who, by painting her fears and suffering, reclaims her sense of life and hope. The various beautiful faces of the protagonist give us faith that art not only allows us to survive but also helps to transform our trauma into remarkable creations.

SPECIAL JURY AWARD

Special Jury Prize goes to the film A stranger Quest by Andrea Gatopoulos for finding the interesting cinematic form to show main character’s deep passion and philosophical reflections on life and for highlighting the importance of following one’s dreams.

SPECIAL MENTION

For capturing a controversial character through the years with an observational and reflective way of filmmaking.

For the intimate portrayal of an expecting couple with an optimistic message about the future.

AUDIENCE AWARD

The film is a creative mix of autobiographical documentary, fictional treatment and puppet animation. It tackles the heavy topic of depression with self-irony, making it easier for the audience to connect with the subject in an honest and refreshing way. The puppet character adds a sense of innocence and nostalgia, reminding us of childhood. By projecting her self-image into the puppet, the filmmaker encourages us to reflect on the inner child, while showing how fiction can make it easier to share and talk about personal struggles.