News

Hot Docs, in collaboration with the Panicaro Foundation, is pleased to reveal the recipients of $30,000 CAD in funding for two international documentary projects under the CrossCurrents Doc Fund - International Theatrical Stream. This fund is dedicated to supporting filmmakers who are telling stories from within underrepresented and marginalized communities. The two selected films are Untying the Knot (D: Chona Mangalindan I Philippines, UK) and Withheld (D: Withheld I Yemen).

"In these powerful narratives, we witness the resilience and strength of individuals from historically underrepresented communities, expertly captured by two talented female directors,” said Heidi Tao Yang, Hot Docs’ Director of Funds & Labs. These stories delve into the human spirit, showcasing the untold stories of survival and determination. These films not only amplify the voices in these regions but also serve as a testament to the universal strength that binds us all together."

"The Panicaro Foundation believes in the transformative power of storytelling. In partnership with Hot Docs, we are proud to support and amplify the voices of documentary filmmakers hailing from underrepresented and marginalized communities,” shared Caroline Birks, Board Member, Panicaro Foundation. “This $30,000 CAD funding for two international documentary projects exemplifies our commitment to fostering diversity, empathy, and understanding through impactful storytelling."

In 2016, the Panicaro Foundation introduced the International Theatrical Stream within the CrossCurrents Doc Fund at Hot Docs Festival, with a mission to foster understanding and appreciation of unheard voices. Over the years, the Fund has allocated $260,000 CAD to support 17 full-length feature projects in production, each helmed by emerging filmmakers representing 14 countries.

229 projects from 60 countries were considered by the CrossCurrents International Doc Fund Committee, which included: Caroline Birks (Board Member, Panicaro Foundation), Sarvnik Kaur (filmmaker, Snooker Clubs Films), Nicolas van Hemelryck (filmmaker, Casatarantula) Yiqian Zhang (Outgoing Manager of Funds and Labs, Hot Docs).

UNTYING THE KNOT
Director: Chona Mangalindan
Producers: Ramzy Haddad, Chona Mangalindan
Production company: Amaya Films
Country: Philippines, United Kingdom
In the Philippines, the last country outside the Vatican where divorce is illegal, women in trouble and abusive marriages risk their lives for freedom.

WITHHELD
Director: Withheld
Producer: Withheld
Production company: Withheld
Country: Yemen