Doc Edge Festival turns 20 with a stacked lineup of documentary viewing
Check out the doco highlights coming to cinemas and living rooms around Aotearoa in the next few months.
Doc Edge Festival is back this month, celebrating its 20th anniversary of bringing vibrant, true cinematic stories to Aotearoa.
This year’s fest has the lineup to match its milestone, with 49 feature films, 29 shorts and 12 immersive projects in the 2025 programme. Audiences in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch can experience Doc Edge in cinemas through June and July (read on for specific dates and locations), and all over Aotearoa, titles will be available via Doc Edge’s Virtual Cinema.
We’ve picked out a few highlights from the programme, which you can check out below – but first, here are the key dates for your doco-watching diary.
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, Silo 6
Wellington: 16 – 27 July
The Roxy Cinema
Christchurch: 16 – 27 July
Lumiere Cinemas, Christchurch Art Gallery, Tūranga Central Library, University of Canterbury
Awards: 3 July, Grand Millennium Auckland
Nationwide: 28 July – 24 August, The Virtual Cinema
The 2025 Doc Edge programme features the following eight categories: The Art of Storytelling, Being Oneself, The Edge of Impact, Facing the Edge, In Truth We Trust, Tides of Change, International Shorts and New Zealand Shorts.
While we haven’t stuck to picking one from each category, here are eight of our picks for 2025 (synopses via Doc Edge).
(Photo credit: Christian Frei)
Blame
After years of exploring remote bat caves, three scientists are catapulted into the harsh spotlight of politics and serious accusations.
Facing War
NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg navigates his final year, balancing Ukraine support promises with rising European war fears.
Mana Moana Mana Tangata
WORLD PREMIERE
In this compelling film, the battle to save Māori fishing rights unfolds as a powerful tale of resilience and determination.
(Photo credit: František Svatoš)
Mr Nobody Against Putin
The incredible story of an ordinary Russian teacher who exposed Putin’s propaganda machine.
Never Get Busted!
He was a highly decorated Texas narcotics officer until he turned on the police force by busting crooked cops and teaching drug users how to hide their stash.
No Tears on the Field
WORLD PREMIERE
In New Zealand’s heartland, teams of aspiring female rugby players must shatter glass ceilings both on and off the field to achieve their improbable dream of international glory.
The Pool
A spectacular cinematic portrait of the iconic Bondi Icebergs – the pool and the people who cherish it.
Strange Journey: The Story of Rocky Horror
A deep dive into the origins and enduring impact of The Rocky Horror Picture Show, a cult film that continues to resonate with audiences and pop culture.
Visit the Doc Edge website for all screening and ticket info.
