TEHRAN-Copenhagen Documentary Film Festival CPH:DOX, whose 21st edition runs from March 13 to 24, has unveiled the films nominated across all six award categories, with two movies by Iranian filmmakers competing at the event.

The selection features 66 films in competition, among which 47 are world premieres, 17 international premieres and two European premieres. All the films in the main competition will be world premieres, ISNA reported.

In the Next: Wave Award category, “Grand Me” by Atiye Zare Arandi, a coproduction of Iran and Belgium will have its world premiere.

The 78-minute film is about 9-year-old Melina, who is old enough to bring a legal case to choose her own guardian. But having her day in court does not mean her dearest wish will be granted.

In the Nordic: DOX Award category, “The Son and the Moon” by Roja Pakari, a joint production of Iran and Denmark wil also experience its world premiere.

It is a Danish-Iranian filmmaker's brave and honest journey through six years of cancer, love and a life project of mapping her family's dramatic history. It includes existential poetry with an unforgettable woman in front of (and behind) the camera.

Speaking about the festival lineup, Niklas Engstrøm, CPH:DOX’s artistic director, commented: “What unites these films is their ambition to engage with the world in a meaningful way. This year’s competition sharpens its focus on the most urgent issues of our time, from the wars in Ukraine and Gaza to gang violence in Sweden, exploring themes of identity politics, colonialism, and the foundational struggles for democracy and the fight against climate change. These films offer fresh perspectives, challenge aesthetic boundaries, and delve deeper into issues we thought we understood.”

CPH:DOX and the Institute for Human Rights have introduced the new Human:Rights Award to this year’s festival, marking the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. This award “underscores the ongoing relevance of human rights in challenging times.”

Mads K. Mikkelsen, CPH:DOX’s head of program, stated: “In an era that demands solidarity with courageous filmmakers who champion equality and justice worldwide, we’ve established the Human: Rights Award. This year, we nominate 10 exceptional films that highlight pressing global issues, reflecting our commitment to fostering a deeper understanding of human rights.”

SS/SAB