The International Documentary Film Festival Amsterdam (IDFA) has revealed its 2025 winners, and the results left fans and critics speechless.
At the Eye Filmmuseum in the Dutch capital, the prestigious festival celebrated the best in global non-fiction cinema, showcasing powerful, emotional stories from around the world.
The top prize for best film went to Mehrdad Oskouei’s A Fox Under a Pink Moon.
The poignant self-portrait follows Soraya, a 16-year-old Afghan artist creating drawings and sculptures while trying to escape Iran. The jury praised the film’s masterful cinematography, noting it was often shot under dangerous conditions.
Key Winners That Shocked Audiences
Another standout was Past Future Continuous, which secured the best film award in the Envision Competition.
The film explores diaspora and memory through a bold cinematic experiment, earning acclaim for its originality.
The best first feature honor went to Paikar by Dawood Hilmandi, a heartfelt family portrait exploring the burden of a nickname. Critics highlighted its emotional depth and cultural resonance.
Dutch Cinema Shines
The best Dutch film award was given to My Word Against Mine.
This sensitive documentary introduces five people who hear voices, offering a compassionate look into their unique experiences. The film was praised for its emotional honesty and groundbreaking perspective.
Audience Anticipation Builds
Other categories celebrated achievements in editing and cinematography.
The NPO Doc IDFA Audience Award winner will be announced later this week, keeping fans eagerly awaiting the final reveal.
Fans React to the Viral Festival Moment
Social media lit up with emotional commentary after the winners were announced.
One fan wrote: “IDFA 2025 winners leave me speechless — this lineup is bigger than a Kardashian family headline.” Another added: “The artistry feels like the Jeff Bezos mansion of documentary cinema — lavish and unforgettable.”
Why It Hits Harder
The IDFA 2025 winners reflect a diverse and powerful year for documentary film.
By spotlighting bold voices and emotional storytelling, the festival proves that non-fiction cinema can be as timeless and jaw-dropping as the 007 theme.
With A Fox Under a Pink Moon leading the way, the IDFA 2025 winners remind us that documentary film remains one of the most powerful cultural forces in global cinema.
