The Judges
Films are judged by professional filmmakers and documentary experts - working artists, not committee members.
Judge 1 of 3
Judge 2 of 3
Judge 3 of 3
The panel for the 2026-27 cycle will be announced with the call for entries.
What they look for
A clear, disciplined narrative that earns the audience's attention.
Depth of reporting, accuracy, and fairness to the people on screen.
Cinematography, sound, editing, production values.
A subject found with genuine curiosity - a film only its maker could have made.
Command of the form - observation, structure, and letting the story speak.
