CPH Web Fest 2019
What a pleasure it has been to invite filmmakers again to Copenhagen for the latest innovation in digital short format storytelling!
Over 19th-22nd September 2019, we ran the 2nd edition of the CPH Web Fest at the KU Søndre Campus and Husets Biograf. While in the first year we focused on introducing the Danish film industry to the medium of webseries and its potentials when it comes to diversity and freedom, this year’s focus was on where this could take filmmakers and what sort of opportunities webseries can pose for filmmakers, producers and communities. Throughout the four days we hosted workshops, masterclasses, screenings, our first ever pitch day and the award ceremony; we had the honour to welcome many international guests including our special guests from Beirut: the team of the doc-webseries ZYARA and winner of this year’s Inspiration Achievement Award. We were also happy to have introduced a collaboration with the community space Trampoline House, where we sponsored tickets and transportation costs for refugees and asylum seekers.
Our Industry Pitch Day was definitely a highlight of the festival: our 14 candidates got the chance to present their projects to a jury of 7 representatives from the Danish film industry (DR, TV2, Danish Film Institute and 4 independent producers). Without exception, we were impressed by the uniqueness and courage of each pitch, and by the support the candidates where given by the jury and their follow presenters. During breakfast, lunch and reception in the evening, we provided plenty of opportunities to mingle and network, share experiences and make new connections. What stood out in conversations and interviews was that there is a huge need and desire in the Danish film industry to give voice to younger and ‘underground’ talent, which the Danish broadcasters and the DFI still fail to attract. This allows us to really take on a significant role with respect to the future which we truly want to embrace.
It has been fantastic to see our festival grow from our first edition in 2018 to becoming a connecting player in the Nordic film industry. And hearing that people are looking forward to the third edition in 2020 is the biggest motivation to make next year even more excited and rooted.