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Empowering Filmmakers: #DocsConnect and
Ji.hlava International Documentary Film Festival

In the dynamic world of filmmaking, mentorship and networking are vital for budding creative film entrepreneurs. Taskovski Films is dedicated to empowering filmmakers both personally and professionally. 

Our recent participation at Ji.hlava International Documentary Film Festival brought us an inspiring cinematic gem. Taskovski Films proudly awarded the prestigious #DocsConnect Taskovski Training Award to the remarkable documentary Society directed by Thomas Østbye

This thought-provoking film delves into the complexities of human society, drawing insights from two distinct cultures – Norway and Indonesia.

The film’s unique approach, featuring interview subjects from different positions in Norwegian society alongside their Indonesian counterparts, provides a captivating perspective on shared idioms and logic, transcending the boundaries of diverse starting points.

Society by Thomas Østbye raises two profound questions: What do we value in society and are we willing to fight to preserve it? It challenges us to reflect on our core beliefs and the ideals worth safeguarding. Additionally, the film prompts us to consider what we can let go of, even if it entails pain, as a path toward progress.

Unique in its approach, this thought-provoking documentary gem features interview subjects from different positions in Norwegian society, paralleled with counterparts in Indonesia. This contrast offers a compelling perspective on shared idioms and logic, despite diverse starting points.

society BY THOMAS ØSTBYE

Director: Thomas Østbye

Producer: Ellen Ugelsta

Production Company: Twentyone Pictures

Countries: Norway, Indonesia

Runtime: 90’

Synopsis: 

Society delves into the complexities of human society and the structures that shape it. Set in both Norway and Indonesia, the film artfully juxtaposes two vastly different cultures to explore themes of inclusion and oppression, isolation and safety. The film poses two thought-provoking questions: What do you truly value in society, and are willing to fight to preserve and what can you let go of, even if it causes pain. The interview subjects are chosen from different positions in society in Norway, with a parallel with similar positions in Indonesia. Same questions and observations of similar social spaces. Same idiom and logic, but wildly different starting points.

Taskovski Films is honored to support and recognize exceptional documentaries that challenge our perspectives and empower filmmakers to inspire change. 

We look forward to more cinematic treasures that redefine our understanding of the world.