Still: Paikar - Dawood Hilmandi

In the International Spectrum section, Paikar**by Dawood Hilmandi is selected. Produced by BALDR Film and with sales by Taskovski Films, the documentary follows an Afghan-Dutch filmmaker who returns to his homeland years after fleeing as a child, confronting his father while reflecting on the meaning of freedom. The film will have its international premiere at the festival, following its earlier screening at IDFA.

Also screening in International Spectrum is House of Hope*by Marjolein Busstra. Produced by 100% Docs and with sales handled by First Hand Films, the film centres on Manar, who runs a pacifist Waldorf school in the occupied West Bank. Amid escalating violence and uncertainty, she is determined to create a safe environment for young children. The documentary will also have its international premiere and previously screened at IDFA 2025. SEE NL spoke with the creators about the project in an earlier interview. Read it here.

In the World Showcase section, Whispers in May* by Dongnan Chen (NL co-prod. Jia Zhao / MF Film Production) is presented. The film follows 14-year-old Qinghua as she embarks on a journey of self-discovery with her two close friends. The film was also selected for CPH:DOX and Visions du Réel.

Another Dutch co-production, Truck Mama by Zippy Nyaruri (NL co-prod. MoonBow Productions), is included in the Persister section. The film is about Eva, a proud truck driver and mother of two navigating long-distance routes across East Africa while coping with the emotional toll of being away from her children. It previously screened at IDFA 2025.

Find out more about Hot Docs here.

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*Film is supported by the Netherlands Film Fund
**Film is supported by the Netherlands Film Fund and Production Incentive