Factual

From June 23 to 26, La Rochelle will once again become the global epicenter of the documentary industry as it hosts the 36th edition of Sunny Side of the Doc. This year’s event unfolds under the banner of transformation and resilience, addressing the profound shifts reshaping the audiovisual ecosystem—from digital disruption to evolving business models and the need for more inclusive and authentic narratives.

At the heart of this year’s edition lies a dual ambition: to better understand the industry's ongoing transformations and to foster deeper connections among international professionals. With over 2,100 delegates from 68 countries, 1,000 companies, and 250 key decision-makers, Sunny Side 2025 aims to chart the new routes of storytelling through innovative formats, curated pitch sessions, and high-level summits.

Highlights include the Innovation Summit (June 23–24), exploring AI, immersive storytelling, and digital-first narratives, and the Archives Summit (June 25–26), focusing on audiovisual heritage, decolonization, and ethical storytelling. These summits reflect a deliberate effort to position the documentary not just as a genre, but as a critical tool for navigating complexity and preserving memory.

This edition places a strong emphasis on international co-productions, equity, and cross-border collaboration. Sunny Side joins the F.A.M.E. alliance (24 European film markets), promotes First Nations voices, and supports emerging regions like Brazil and Africa through dedicated sessions and networking.

The introduction of tailored pathways for co-production, distribution, and new talent helps professionals maximize the market’s opportunities. Key broadcasters—including France Télévisions, NHK, Al Jazeera, ZDF Studios, and Canal+—will present their line-ups and acquisition strategies, while new “Meet the Buyers” and “Meet the Commissioners” formats allow for targeted business development.

Through initiatives like the Sunny Academy, Doc Network, and the newly launched Doc Residency, the event supports emerging talents with training, mentorship, and access to decision-makers. A cohort of 10 project holders will receive personalized guidance, with sessions exploring global storytelling, authenticity in music, and the daily life of distributors.

Beyond industry trends, Sunny Side of the Doc reinforces its values: gender equity, disability inclusion, and eco-responsibility. Collaborations with organizations like MediaClub’Elles and ReelAbilities showcase the market’s commitment to inclusive practices and sustainable impact.

For further information: Sunny Side