The 19th edition of #ethnocineca – International Documentary Film Festival Vienna concluded with an awards ceremony at the Votiv cinema, wrapping up a week of screenings under the theme «HAUNTINGS.» With rising attendance and a broad international presence, the festival once again proved a vital platform for politically and aesthetically resonant documentary cinema.

International Documentary Award (IDA)

Winner: HOME GAME by Lidija Zelović (Netherlands, 2024)

The jury praised the film’s precise editing and its urgent portrait of a family caught in the crosscurrents of war, migration, and the rise of the European far-right.

Austrian Documentary Award (ADA)

Winner: THE LIFE OF SEAN DELEAR by Markus Zizenbacher (Austria, 2024)

Described as a «time-travelling work of art,» the film interlaces underground music history and raw personal footage into a vivid tribute.

Excellence in Visual Anthropology Award (EVA)

Winner: ANGRY SPIRITS by Iris Pakulla (Germany, Mongolia, 2024)

The jury highlighted its unique hybrid form and dreamlike exploration of the liminal spaces between tradition and modernity.

Honourable Mention (EVA)

TARANTISM REVISITED by Anja Dreschke and Michaela Schäuble (Germany/Switzerland, 2024) was commended for its layered essay structure and captivating deep dive into the rituals and representations of tarantism.

International Shorts Award (ISA)

Winner: KARUN – The Longest River of Iran by Sahand Sarhaddi (Switzerland/Iran/Finland, 2024)

ethnocineca Students Shorts Award (ESSA)

Winner: COMMODO by Elettra Giotti (Italy/UK, 2024)

This film represents a strong showing of emerging talent and the vibrant vision of young documentary filmmakers.