Hungary’s largest professional film association introduces its latest publications: the MADOKE 2025 Catalogue and the White Paper, a proposal package aimed at renewing the Hungarian documentary film financing ecosystem for greater sustainability and international competitiveness. Presented by Julianna Ugrin, MADOKE President, and Réka Pigniczky, Board Member.
Verzió DocPro 2025
The professional and educational program of the Verzió International Human Rights Documentary Film Festival returns again this year! Between November 12–16, DocPro welcomes everyone interested in the world of documentary film — from professionals to students and general audiences. The aim of Verzió DocPro is to create space for connection, exchange, and inspiration within the documentary community. Over five days, the program explores both current professional issues and broader topics that engage the public, through panels, masterclasses, and presentations.
Friday, November 14: MADOKE Day (CEU Budapest, 1051 Budapest, Nádor u. 15, Auditorium A)
Organized in collaboration with MADOKE, this day features two engaging professional panels and the launch of MADOKE’s new catalogue and White Paper — a long-awaited proposal for reforming the Hungarian documentary film funding model based on international standards. Media and industry representatives are especially invited, as the topic plays a crucial role in shaping the future of Hungarian documentary filmmaking.
14 November - 11:30AM 90'
CEU - Auditorium A
When is it time to let go of a film project? Every documentary filmmaker has faced the painful realization that some projects—no matter how compelling—simply can’t be made. Whether due to lack of access, funding shortfalls, dwindling interest, or creative burnout, the decision to abandon a project can be as defining as finishing one. This panel explores the difficult moments and reasons we decide to stop, and what that means for our creative lives and mental health.
Featuring filmmakers and industry experts from across Europe who will share candid “negative case studies” of films that never reached completion, we’ll discuss what they learned from the process—and even screen short clips from projects that didn’t fly.
14 November - 2:00PM 90'
CEU - Auditorium A
How can filmmakers ethically and safely handle the most delicate, vulnerable subjects in documentary filmmaking? This conversation offers practical insight — from producers and directors — into navigating conflicts, personal stories, and emotionally sensitive content throughout the production process.
