Doc Edge Names 2025 Superhero And Welcomes First International Guests

Ruby Chen, Co-Founder and CEO of CNEX Foundation, has been named the 2025 Doc Edge Superhero, an honour recognising her outstanding contribution to global documentary filmmaking. She will receive the award at the Doc Edge Awards on 3 July and deliver a keynote address at the Doc Edge Forum.

Chen, a tireless champion for documentary filmmakers in the Asia-Pacific region, has played a pivotal role in the global visibility of Chinese and Asian documentaries.

“As we all believe in the importance of documentaries and the power of moving visuals, I am honoured to be part of this circle of professionals who work hard to create impact and inspire people of all walks to lead their lives with positive energy,” says Ruby Chen.

Alex Lee, Director of Doc Edge, adds, “Ruby Chen exemplifies the spirit of documentary filmmaking—courageous, transformative, and truthful. Her dedication to nurturing talent and promoting documentary in the Asia-Pacific region has facilitated the rise of Asian and Chinese documentary makers globally—aligning perfectly with the ethos of Doc Edge.”

Doc Edge Industry 2025: Courage, Truth, and Transformation
Now in its 20th edition, Doc Edge Industry returns 30 June – 3 July 2025 at the Grand Millennium Auckland, continuing its legacy as the Asia-Pacific hub for documentary innovation. Held as part of the Oscar®-qualifying Doc Edge Festival, the four-day event offers a recharged user experience for global documentary professionals with a focus on connection, creativity, and career development.

Key Programme Highlights:

• Pitch | Wayfinding (30 June – 1 July): A premier opportunity for filmmakers to present their projects in development to local and international decision-makers, with mentorship and access to global festivals and markets. It spotlights both local and international projects, alongside a Rough Cuts session for Docs-in-Progress, offering a dynamic, real-time feedback loop from industry experts.
• Forum (2 – 3 July): A platform for emerging and established storytellers and industry leaders to exchange ideas and advance their careers. It features a meticulously crafted programme, designed to immerse participants in a space where reflection, collaboration, and engagement thrive. With world-class speakers, thought-provoking sessions, and interactive opportunities, Forum participants will help shape the future of documentary.
• Market (30 June – 3 July): Facilitates connections between projects and potential buyers to enhance distribution and acquisition opportunities.
• Awards (3 July): Celebrates outstanding documentaries, with winners of Best International and Best NZ Film automatically qualifying for Oscar® consideration.

Esteemed International Speakers:

• Courtney Sexton – Emmy-winning producer and EVP at Jigsaw Productions, known for RBG, Navalny, and Gabby Giffords Won’t Back Down. Formerly with CNN Films and Participant Media.
• Ryan Harrington – Emmy and Peabody Award-winning producer and Director of Film Programming at Jacob Burns Film Center. He is also co-founder of BD4, a new production label focused on commercially-driven documentary storytelling.

More international and local guests will be announced in May, along with the full Doc Edge Industry 2025 programme.

Early Bird Passes Available Now

Secure your place at Doc Edge Industry 2025 with 50% off early bird passes until 9 May. Spaces are limited. Visit docedge.nz/industry to book and stay updated via Doc Edge’s social channels.

The full Doc Edge Festival programme and tickets will be live from 9 May, with tickets available via the festival’s website.

2025 KEY FESTIVAL DATES & VENUES

Industry: 30 June – 3 July, Grand Millennium Auckland

Auckland: 25 June – 13 July, Bridgeway Cinema, The Capitol Cinema, SkyCity Theatre and Silo 6

Wellington: 16 – 27 July, The Roxy Cinema

Christchurch: 16 – 27 July, Lumiere Cinemas, Christchurch Art Gallery, Tūranga Central Library, and the University of Canterbury

Awards: 3 July, Grand Millennium Auckland

Nationwide: 28 July – 24 August, The Virtual Cinema

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