IDFA 2025 Winners Announced: A Fox Under a Pink Moon Takes Top Honor

The International Documentary Film Festival Amsterdam (IDFA) has revealed its 2025 award winners. The ceremony took place at the Eye Filmmuseum in the Dutch capital. It celebrated the best in global non-fiction cinema.

Mehrdad Oskouei’s “A Fox Under a Pink Moon” won the top prize for best film. The festival’s 38th edition highlighted powerful stories from around the world. According to Reuters, the event showcased a record number of submissions.

Key Winners and Jury Acclaim at Prestigious Festival

The winning film, “A Fox Under a Pink Moon,” is a poignant self-portrait. It follows a 16-year-old Afghan artist named Soraya. She creates drawings and sculptures while trying to escape Iran.

The jury praised the film’s masterful cinematography. They noted it was often filmed in dangerous conditions. The collaboration empowers a young artist to reclaim her identity amid exile.

Another major winner was “Past Future Continuous.” This film secured the best film award in the Envision Competition. It explores themes of diaspora and memory through a unique cinematic experiment.

Documentary Films Highlight Global Stories and New Talent

The award for best first feature went to “Paikar” by Dawood Hilmandi. The film is a family portrait exploring the burden of a nickname. It received special recognition from international critics.

The best Dutch film honor was awarded to “My Word Against Mine.” This documentary introduces five people who hear voices. It provides a sensitive look into their unique experiences.

Other categories celebrated achievements in editing and cinematography. The NPO Doc IDFA Audience Award winner will be announced later this week. The festival continues to be a vital platform for documentary filmmakers.

The IDFA 2025 winners list reflects a diverse and powerful year for documentary film. The main keyword “IDFA 2025 winners” captures a significant moment for global cinema. These films will now reach wider audiences internationally.

Thought you’d like to know

What film won the top award at IDFA 2025?

“A Fox Under a Pink Moon” by Mehrdad Oskouei won best film. It triumphed in the International Competition. The jury highlighted its powerful collaboration and cinematography.

Which film won the Envision Competition?

“Past Future Continuous” won best film in the Envision category. It was directed by Morteza Ahmadvand and Firouzeh Khosrovani. The jury praised its unusual and poignant cinematic experiment.

Who won the award for best first feature?

Dawood Hilmandi won for his film “Paikar.” The film also received a special mention in the Dutch film category. It explores family dynamics and personal burdens.

What was named best Dutch film?

“My Word Against Mine” by Maasja Ooms won best Dutch film. The documentary focuses on individuals who hear voices. It offers a sensitive portrayal of their experiences.

Where was the awards ceremony held?

The ceremony was held at the Eye Filmmuseum in Amsterdam. This is a regular venue for the prestigious festival. The event celebrated its 38th edition this year.