MOLDOX turns 10: premieres, exhibitions and debates about today’s global “chaos”
The 10th edition of the MOLDOX International Documentary Film Festival for Social Change will be held from November 26 to 30 in Chișinău. This year’s festival features 33 documentary premieres, a national competition, discussion panels, exhibitions, concerts, and activities focused on art and social dialogue. The theme of this anniversary edition is "Chaos: Reinventing reality."
The festival director, Maxim Cirlan, explained on Radio Moldova's "Zi de Zi" show that this year's theme is inspired by the rapid transformations occurring in the world, which are dominated by conflicts and emerging technologies:
"We are experiencing moments of chaos, particularly those triggered or exacerbated by artificial intelligence. This chaos is also a result of Russia's war against Ukraine. We believe it's essential to address these issues through film and to explore possible solutions for ourselves."
However, the program also features more accessible films.
"Not all films tackle serious issues; there are plenty that provide entertainment, creating a mix," mentioned Maxim Cirlan.
Premiere films and national debut competition
The MOLDOX 2025 selection includes 27 feature-length documentaries and 6 short films produced in the Republic of Moldova and other countries, all screening for the first time in our country.
"All our films are premieres, except for the short films at 'Labnic.' They have won awards at film festivals such as Venice and Berlinale."
The festival director also highlighted one of the standout titles:
"For example, we have a film that received a record number of standing ovations. We are very proud to have brought it here."
This edition also marks the debut of the national documentary feature-length competition, with six Moldovan productions making their public debut.
"These films have never been seen before. It is a unique opportunity to watch them, and they will be judged by an international jury, which will decide which film wins the €1,000 prize," stated Maxim Cirlan.
Panels, exhibitions, concerts, and books
In addition to film screenings, the festival will feature numerous related activities to stimulate dialogue and foster community cohesion.
"As is traditional, we will have discussion panels where topics such as chaos in social media, mental bubbles, and the Republic of Moldova's integration into the European Union—both with and without Transnistria—will be discussed," explained the festival director.
The public will also have the chance to visit a photography exhibition by Natalia Parfionova, hosted at the Zemstva House.
"It's an extraordinary exhibition showcasing photographs taken on film, which is becoming increasingly rare," said Maxim Cirlan.
The program also includes various informal events.
"We have parties and a concert at Artcor on November 28 featuring the young band 'Prima Dragoste.' There will be related events every evening, allowing us to get to know one another and spend time together," announced Maxim Cirlan.
The festival will also introduce the "MOLDOX Shelf," a thematic selection of books recommended by the organizers.
"We have chosen books that resonate with the festival themes. You can consult these if you attend the panels," he added.
The anniversary edition also presents a special exhibition featuring all ten festival posters from the past decade.
"It's a chance to look back and appreciate the beginnings of our roots," emphasized MOLDOX director Maxim Cirlan.
