The inaugural edition of the London International Documentary Festival opened at the British museum on March 17, 2007. Over the years, it has grown to become the largest independent documentary film festival in the UK. It program features documentaries which cover the most important cultural, social and political issues of the day. The festivals is known for its questioning, critical attitude to such issues.
The festival screens feature-length and short documentary film from all over the world dedicated to a wide array of subjects. Both established filmmakers and up-and-coming film directors submit their works. Among the LIDF’s previous participants are world renowned filmmakers such as Martin Scorsese and Steven Soderbergh.
In 2013, the London International Documentary Festival was accredited as a qualifying film festival by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS). This means that films which have received the festival’s prize in the Documentary Short Subject category are eligible for being considered for the Annual Academy Award in the Best Documentary (Short Subject) category without the standard theatrical run, provided the film otherwise complies with the rest of Academy criteria.
The motto of the festival is “A Conversation in Film”. That’s why one of its highlights are discussions organized to accompany screenings. Such discussions often feature filmmakers, journalists, intellectuals, politicians, representatives from NGOs and charities. The festival also hosts workshops and special screenings (for instance, retrospectives).
The LIDF prides itself on creating a highly distinct environment for cultural interaction which makes it not just a film festival, but a festival of ideas. It aims to remind people that cinema is a powerful tool for creating debate, connecting people, and encouraging them to take action.
In 2021 and 2022, the event was held online due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Photo: lidf.co.uk
