DokuBaku is the first independent International Documentary Film Festival in Azerbaijan. Since the establishment of the festival in 2017, it aims to present a showcase of handpicked - specially selected documentary films from all over the world in the international program as well as the local competition which purpose to support local filmmakers and non-fiction production.

DokuBaku IDFF supports the screening of films by Azerbaijani documentary film directors along with a unique, unrepeatable as-life international documentary film program intended for the general public. The festival includes debates and discussions of local and foreign filmmakers within various fields and film screenings.

The objectives of DokuBaku consist of:

- Promoting the development of an independent documentary film industry in
Azerbaijan, encouraging local young and professional filmmakers and cinema lovers;
- Creating a platform for documentary film screening and exchange of experience with
local and international professionals;
- Supporting the making of new local documentary films;
- Encouraging the creation of potential international products.

DokuBaku has been removing the gap in the cultural life and the cinema community of Azerbaijan. It has had an invaluable result with its film program and events for seven years.

DokuBaku International Film Festival is thrilled to announce the call entry for the 8th edition. The main topic of this year's edition is titled iCOSMOS.

At the core of this year's festival lies a narrative journey that delves into the consequences of choices, both immediate and delayed, shaping the destinies of characters. This thematic exploration acts as a captivating lens through which we navigate the intricate fabric of karma, illustrating how our decisions intricately weave the tapestry of our lives.
Taking this exploration a step further, our festival intertwines the concept of "i" with the cosmic energies that envelop us. Acknowledging the symbiotic relationship between the cosmos and the self, we echo the ancient wisdom of "As above, so below," emphasizing the interconnectedness of the macrocosm (universe) and the microcosm (individuals). By doing so, we invite filmmakers and audiences to embark on an introspective journey, fostering self-awareness and deepening their understanding of the profound ties binding humanity to the vastness of the cosmos — the higher self.
This narrative journey aligns seamlessly with the age-old philosophy of Maya in Hinduism, where the external world is perceived as transient and illusory. By peeling away the layers of illusion, we encourage a deeper exploration of personal truths and a realization that transcends the surface of existence. This inward reflection resonates with various spiritual practices, urging individuals to unravel the mysteries of their true nature.

Festival’s categories:

1. Best Feature Documentary Film
2. Best Short Documentary Film
3. Best Local Documentary Film
4. Best Documentary Film for Children (DokuKids)
5. Non-Main Competition

The Early bird deadline is 03 March 2024
The regular deadline is 04 April 2024
Late deadline: 05 May 2024

The festival will be held between the 1st to 6th of October 2024 at various venues, in Baku, Azerbaijan.
The selected films will be announced on 08 August 2024.

The winning film in each category gets the prize which is a unique artwork made by a local artist.

Best Documentary Film:
– CosmoHuman & iHuman – Special Mention

Best Short Documentary:
– CosmoHuman & iHuman – Special Mention

Best Local Documentary:
– CosmoHuman & iHuman – Special Mention

Best Documentary for Kids (DokuKids)
– iCyborg:

Best Non-Main Competition
– NewEYE

All films in languages other than English should have English subtitles (embedded or .srt)

Program:

"We invite all filmmakers to share their cinematic studies on how humanity can effectively navigate the challenges of our time:

As we contemplate, time encompasses the inner world of human existence. Within each of us resides a beauty that spans millennia, too ancient to be fully captured in verse or on screen, too profound to be universally understood, yet cherished deeply by a select few. Is it time to delve deeper, uncovering the true essence of our being? Time for love, illumination, and the enchantment of the human experience. For in the tapestry of existence, We Are One!"

We eagerly anticipate your submissions, each offering a unique perspective on the human condition and our collective journey through time.

The films submitted to the festival must be completed in 2023-2024.
World Premieres are welcome!

Audience:
DokuBaku is a festival aimed at the general public. DokuBaku's public audiences are ticket buyers or those invited by the festival organizers.

Guests of the Festival:
DokuBaku IDFF organizers do not undertake the expenses of festival guests and participants in 2024.

General Provisions:
This Regulation was compiled in Azerbaijani and English.

The text in the Azerbaijani language is preferred when there is a contradiction among the texts of the regulations. Participation in DokuBaku involves accepting the terms and conditions unquestionably that is used in these regulations. Any questions and controversy arising during the preparation and implementation of the festival shall be resolved by the organizer of the festival in accordance with the legislation of the Republic of Azerbaijan.

IMPORTANT NOTE:

Dear SUBMITTERS,

We want to express our gratitude for your interest in submitting your films to DokuBaku 2024. As we gear up for another exciting festival, we'd like to remind you of some important regulations to ensure a smooth submission process:

Screening Fee Notice: DokuBaku is an independent film festival, and unfortunately, we are unable to provide screening fees to sales agents, independent filmmakers, film productions, producers, etc. We kindly ask for your understanding and cooperation in this matter.

Support for the Festival: Your participation in DokuBaku not only enriches our festival but also supports our mission to celebrate independent cinema. We appreciate your support by submitting your film and refraining from requesting waiver codes.

Respect for Our Work: We deeply value the effort and dedication that goes into creating each film. Rest assured, we hold immense respect for your work and are thrilled at the prospect of showcasing it at our festival.

Thank you for your attention to these regulations. We look forward to receiving your submissions and celebrating the art of filmmaking together at DokuBaku 2024.

Love, Light and Peace,
DokuBaku Team
#weareone

Looking forward to seeing you at DokuBaku IDFF2024.

Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Nihad Isa

    Amazing experience and nice atmosphere.
    Thanks for all!

    October 2022
  • Sara Bahramjahan

    Thank you for your awesome festival and excellent planning and thank you for providing me the conditions to come to Baku and stay there due to the difficult flight conditions. I was impressed by unique personality of Imam and I learned a lot from his insight.

    October 2022
  • It was an honor be be present to DokuBaku 2022 and to won an award with my film Mamody, the last baobab digger . Even I couldn't attend the festival, it was a great experience. The communication and organisation are very good and friendly. Top festival !

    October 2022
  • It is a beautiful festival. The organization keeps in touch with you all the time.
    I am very grateful to have participated in the 2021 edition and I recommend the whole film community to participate in DOKUBAKU FF.

    November 2021
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    Response from festival:

    Thank you so much for your kind words. Hope to see you again this year!

  • Hot Chilli Films

    Great festival with a great selection of films.
    I’m very glad that we had our film there and we thank the juries for the best documentary award at No Main Competition.
    Hope to be back with another film in the future.

    November 2021
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    Response from festival:

    We are happy to hear such words from you. Good luck to you!