Ex Oriente Film Documentary Laboratory

Ex oriente Film Documentary Laboratory

For the third time running, Sunny Side of the Doc will be hosting the first session of the Ex oriente Film Documentary Laboratory in La Rochelle, from 20 to 26 June 2025.

Ex Oriente Workshop Programs is an international project-based training program composed of balanced residential and online sessions organised by the Institute of Documentary Film in partnership with international festivals, markets and industry platforms.The laboratory includes 12 feature-length documentary projects and 5 docuseries projects coming from Central and Eastern Europe.

A Comprehensive and Immersive Training

Ex Oriente Series is designed to foster, cultivate and nourish emerging documentary talents and producers. Spread over three modules across Europe, it offers a structured and practical learning experience:

1st Session: June 2025 [Sunny Side of the Doc]
2nd Session: October 2025
3rd Session & East Doc Forum: March 2026

With a packed and intensive schedule, the first session of Ex Oriente Series promises a deep dive into the art and industry of documentary series. The program will open with project presentations and a keynote by Ruth Reid on the foundations of episodic storytelling. Highlights include a lecture by Chris Westendorp on developing character arcs across episodes, and a case study by Lucio Mollica on showrunning Vietnam: The Birth of a Nation. Directors will focus on in-depth character work through the I Am My Character writing exercise, while producers will tackle key challenges such as financing, digital-first strategies, and international co-productions. Each team will also benefit from tailored one-on-one meetings with experienced tutors. In addition, participants will take part in networking sessions at Sunny Side of the Doc.

Selected projects

Series participating in this year’s edition explore intimate personal narratives and pressing global issues across diverse regions. Hijacked Life traces the turbulent path of a Soviet hijacker seeking redemption; Grandpa was a genius reflects on the legacy and burden of musical heritage; World Divided travels through cities marked by conflict in search of healing; Justice as legalised terror investigates how justice systems can be turned against citizens; and When The Wind Blows follows workers driving Europe’s green transition from within.

Access to Decision-Makers and Market Opportunities

By integrating this first module into Sunny Side of the Doc, the training gains an unprecedented strategic dimension. Participants will be able to:

Pitch their project to influential industry professionals (broadcasters, platforms, funders, international producers).
Benefit from a tailored program including lectures and masterclasses.
Access conferences, workshops, and roundtables led by specialists in the documentary industry.
Receive personalized support to refine and structure their funding strategy.