Business Doc Europe spoke to Irena Taskovski, CEO and founder of Taskovski Films, a sales and production outfit based in London and one of the leading players in the field of non-fiction. Ahead of the bustling days of the European Film Market (EFM), Taskovski zoomed in on her firm’s slate and shared valuable market insights.
The first highlight of this year’s line-up is undoubtedly the Generation-bound titled Maydegol, helmed by Sarvnaz Alambeigi. The Iranian-German-French co-production follows an Afghan teenager who has immigrated with her parents to Iran, and strives to pursue her dream of becoming a professional Muay Thai boxer. She is determined not to let the conservative mindset of her family, her experience of physical abuse nor the anti-immigrant hostility stop her. The Berlinale programme states the picture depicts “the perseverance of Generation Z [kids] who are seeking to escape their seemingly bleak destinies and assert their rights, with young women in particular looking for freedom – even at the risk of losing their lives.”
Another buzzy title of the catalogue is Pieter Van Eecke’s Holding up the Sky, which Taskovski describes as “a compelling narrative about an extraordinary Shaman’s four-decade battle against the Brazilian government to preserve the Amazon forest.” Taskovski adds that the picture already gained significant theatrical success in the Benelux region and is poised for additional screenings, particularly in light of upcoming Earth Day commemoration.
Coming up next is Pau Faus’ Fauna, a Catalan production courtesy of Nanuk Film, which has been sold to US, Taskovski confirms, with details to come. The feature promises to be “a reflection on the relationship between humans, animals and science in times of pandemic.”
Speaking about her slate and editorial policy, Taskovski underscores that it “reflects contemporary issues and unique cinematic languages,” with titles such as Nemanja Vojinović’s Bottleman, the winner of the prize for Best Documentary at the 2023 Sarajevo Film Festival, which rounds off the company’s offering.
“Our slate is carefully selected and our motto is to support and bring to the world ‘Art for Change.’ Moreover, at the Berlinale Taskovski Films will be finalising deals for several new titles set to premiere worldwide soon,” she further explains.
When asked to provide a comment on the current climate for doc sales, Taskovski’s take seems rather optimistic: “The climate remains vibrant, with 2023 witnessing positive traction for our films globally. Looking ahead to 2024, we anticipate continued momentum. At Taskovski Films, we prioritise stories that challenge, provoke and inspire, recognising the urgency of addressing societal issues such as the rise of right-wing governments, conflicts, genocides and the direct state of climate change.”
“Documentaries play a crucial role in fostering understanding, tolerance and action. As we navigate these challenges, it’s essential to foster global collaborations among filmmakers, sales agents, broadcasters, and platforms to amplify impactful storytelling and drive meaningful change,” she adds.
Speaking about the main trends in non-fiction consumption and acquisition, Taskovski tells BDE: “Doc buyers are currently seeking films that reflect today’s global issues and societal dynamics. As creators and distributors, we shape trends through conscious efforts.”
“It’s crucial to transcend traditional documentary formats and cater to the increasing demand for high-quality cinematic, author-driven films. These productions offer audiences diverse perspectives and artistic expressions, promoting a deeper understanding of the world. Sales agents, distributors, filmmakers and buyers play pivotal roles in curating platforms that feature content beyond the mainstream. By showcasing films that foster critical thinking, promote social awareness and inspire action, we enrich the documentary landscape and empower audiences to engage meaningfully with complex issues.”
Taskovksi Films usually works on 10-12 titles each year. The outfit takes part in a number of industry events based in Europe and worldwide, including the likes of Cannes, IDFA, DOK Leipzig, Prague’s East Platform, Nyon’s Visions du Réel, Tokyo Docs, Doc Edge India and Chile Doc’s Connecta.
As Taskovski Films doesn’t only handle sales, their approach is quite unique and multifaceted: “Our approach is driven by a commitment to high-quality productions and sustainable practices. Over the course of our 20 years in the industry, we’ve prioritised maintaining our integrity and ensuring the success of the films we produce or represent. Our holistic approach encompasses a full spectrum of services, from development and financing support to sales and impact distribution.”
“Additionally, we offer in-house PR and publicity services, not only for our own sales catalogue but also for films represented by other sales agents, particularly during their world premieres. Furthermore, our #DocsConnect professional training programme is aimed at conscious film producers and distributors, empowering them with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in the industry. By providing comprehensive support throughout the filmmaking journey, we ensure both our business and our clients remain healthy and sustainable in the long term.”
“When it comes to what kind of docs we take, for us it’s very important to create a space for new, fresh cinematic languages, as well as films that cover important stories sporting environmental, social, arts, culture and geopolitical themes.”
Towards the end of our conversation, Taskovski observes with a pinch of irony that “a successful EFM goes beyond securing million-dollar deals, although those are certainly welcome.”
“It’s about establishing meaningful partnerships with both buyers and filmmakers, whether through acquisitions or the services we offer. Success also entails planning future steps with like-minded industry peers, exploring how our collective efforts can contribute positively to the world today. While closing sales deals is important, the true measure of success lies in the connections we make and the potential impact our collaborations can have on the industry and society as a whole,” she sums up.
