Every year, the Festival Film Dokumenter (FFD) brings independent voices, documentary screenings, and creative energy to Yogyakarta. This lively and historic city becomes a gathering place for filmmakers and film fans.
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Founded in 2002 by the Forum Film Dokumenter, it emerged from a small group of young enthusiasts who recognised that documentaries weren’t just niche, they were a meaningful way to reflect society, history, and change.
The festival has grown from small early screenings into a full week of films, discussions, masterclasses, and networking. It used to take place each December at different venues in Yogyakarta, but in 2025, it is expanding with new formats and welcoming a new concept.
The festival’s philosophy is straightforward: documentary films reflect society and connect creators with audiences. It’s not just entertainment. It’s purposeful storytelling.
Festival Film Dokumenter in 2025
The 24th edition of the festival will take place from November 21-28, 2025, in Yogyakarta. In 2025, the festival continues under the banner of “documentary as a medium of expression and knowledge ecosystem”.
The festival offers a full program, including competitions for international and Indonesian feature-length films, shorts, and student works. There will also be screenings, workshops, masterclasses, and discussions. This year, you can look forward to interactive exhibitions, a larger film library, and more chances to meet filmmakers.
Background Story of Festival Film Dokumenter
The festival started in 2002, when Forum Film Dokumenter (FFD) launched Indonesia’s first documentary film festival. Back then, documentaries were often overlooked in favor of fiction and commercial films. A group of young film enthusiasts in Yogyakarta believed that documentaries could serve as a tool for education, reflection, and social commentary.
In its early years, the festival held small screenings in university halls, hosted discussions with filmmakers, and ran simple workshops. Over time, it built a strong reputation and network. Organizers, directors, programmers, and volunteers all played a part in shaping the festival.
The festival is important because it gives a platform to voices that are often not heard, connects local and global perspectives, and uses film to reflect society. It has grown from a small local event each December into a week-long festival that attracts people from all over Indonesia and beyond.
What to Prepare to Visit the Festival Film Dokumenter
The screenings are held at several venues across the city. Based on its previous events, FFD has held screenings at Taman Budaya Yogyakarta, Langgeng Art Foundation, Kedai Kebun Forum, and other venues. It’s giving visitors a chance to experience different parts of Yogyakarta.
Each screening has its own schedule, so visitors are encouraged to check the official programme for specific times. Generally, festival venues open around 10 AM and continue with film screenings until the evening. Staying updated via the official Instagram account, @ffdjogja, helps attendees stay informed about schedules, workshops, and ticketing details.
Bring a valid ID and complete online registration if needed, since some free programs may still require sign-ups. Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early to get a good seat. Use the digital or printed festival program to plan which films you want to see.
Dress comfortably, as some screenings might be in unusual spaces. Bring a notebook or use your phone to take notes during discussions or workshops. Most films have English subtitles, and some use local languages that may need translation for wider audiences.
Take advantage of networking at panel talks, masterclasses, and interactive sessions. Watch both Indonesian and international documentaries to broaden your experience. Use public transport or ride-shares to get between venues, and make time to enjoy Yogyakarta’s cultural attractions during your visit.
Festival Film Dokumenter offers a special look at storytelling, culture, and the impact of documentaries. From its start in Yogyakarta to the previous edition, the festival encourages conversation, discovery, and inspiration. Check out its official website ffd.or.id and its Instagram @ffdjogja for more updates.