The 15th edition of MakeDox, the Skopje-based documentary film festival, has unveiled its 2024 winners, celebrating diverse storytelling that traverses personal, political, and moral landscapes.
The Onion Award was bestowed upon Agent of Happiness by Dorottya Zurbo and Arun Bhattarai. The film was praised for its seamless blend of personal narrative and political commentary, skillfully crafting a story that resonates universally. The jury commended the directors for their nuanced portrayal of the protagonist and the surprising depth given to side characters, enhancing the film’s scope.
A Special Mention in the Main Program went to Silence of Reason by Kumjana Novakova. This film, noted for its innovative use of archival footage, explores the harrowing experiences of women during wartime. The jury highlighted the film’s meticulous editing and its ability to turn the imperfections of historical footage into a powerful narrative tool.
In the Newcomers Program, the Young Onion Award was awarded to Balomania by Sissel Morell Dargis. The film offers a rare glimpse into an underground world, capturing the exuberance and struggles of its subjects with a compelling narrative rhythm.
Léonore Mercier’s Savage won the Sliced Onion Award in the Short Program. The film was recognized for its vivid portrayal of fear and cruelty, masterfully conveyed through both visual and auditory elements.
Marta Smerechynska’s One Aloe One Ficus One Avocado and Six Dracaenas received the Onion Seed Award in the Student Program for its introspective exploration of material possessions and the emotional impact of relocation.
The Moral Approach Award was presented to Kix by Dávid Mikulán and Bálint Révész, lauded for its non-judgmental portrayal of life on society’s margins, offering a deeply human perspective on the precarity of existence.
