If you're a documentary film buff, I recommend you visit theIDFA.
Every year, this international festival brings together some of the best names in the genre.
From Mickaël Moore to Alyx Ayn Arumpac, discover the year's documentaries in Amsterdam!
IDFA : article summary
IDFA: an important event for this type of film
The International Documentary Film Festival Amsterdam (IDFA) is one of the largest and most important festivals of its kind in the world.
A unique opportunity for everyone to discover something new about the world we live in.
Like many other festivals, this one is also a big market for writers and TV channels. Many celebrities of the genre visit the event.
On site, you can discover award-winning films such as :
- Apolonia by Léa Glob
- Much Ado About Dying by Simon Chambers
- Journey Through Our World by Mario Steenbergen
- Paradise by Paul Guilhaume
- Manifesto by Angie Vinchito
You'll find plenty of fascinating documentaries during your stay in Amsterdam!
Evenings at De Balie: an exceptional atmosphere
Probably the most difficult task is to stay motivated and awake after ten nights of partying. This takes place every evening at De Balie.
On site, you'll meet smart, funny people from all over the world. Here, you'll have conversations on any subject.
The IDFA and its after-party at De Balie, is a real cultural bath that you can't help but enjoy.
IDFA: early morning screenings
Documentary film screenings start early in the morning and last until the middle of the night. With over 200 films to choose from, you're sure to find something to your liking.
To escape the crowd of nearly 100,000 people, my advice is to make sure you have your tickets reserved on time.
In fact, I strongly advise against buying your tickets on the spot. They may be sold out.
What's more, if there are still tickets to be purchased at the box office of the cinemas hosting the event, the long queues will be discouraging, and you'll have to be ready to go. will waste precious time.
When does the festival take place?
The IDFA documentary film festival in Amsterdam takes place between November and December. In 2023, it will be held :
- November 8 to 19
What are the IDFA awards?
There are several prizes awarded by juries. Here you'll find awards such as :
- The Joris Ivens
- Le Loup d'Argent
- The Fipresci Prize
- The DOEN Award
To ensure clear interaction with the public, the IDFA has created a special Audience Award. To ensure that every visitor the chance to give your opinion on the films you've seen.
The award is also an excellent recommendation for the rest of the world, where films are most likely to become important and popular on a global scale.
Where does the IDFA take place?
The event takes place in the city's main cinemas. These are mainly located around the Leidseplein. You can then watch documentaries in establishments such as :
- Le Balie
- The Pathé City Theatre
- The Film Museum Cinerama
- The Stadsschouwburg Amsterdam
- Visit Paradiso
- Het Ketelhuis
- SMCS
The IDFA is an event not to be missed if you're passionate about documentaries. Here, you'll discover what's new in the genre and enjoy a number of films dedicated to discovery.
What to do in Amsterdam in 1 day, 2 days, 3 days, 5 days, a week?
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