Autentic Distribution has announced its Summer Releases: a powerful slate of 37 fresh documentary hours launching ahead of Sunny Side of the Doc and NATPE Budapest. This diverse catalogue brings together stunning natural history, insightful science, in-depth current affairs, and human-centered storytelling, offering broadcasters and audiences a thought-provoking selection of non-fiction programming. With global warming and geopolitical tensions reshaping our world, the new slate highlights the shifting balance of ecosystems, the extremes of nature, and the far-reaching consequences of political power plays.
Globalization & Geopolitical Shifts
Autentic Distribution’s latest additions in the genres Current Affairs and History provide powerful insights into the forces reshaping our world, from shifting power alliances to the historical roots of globalization. “Russia’s Shadow War in Africa” (52′, NGLOW) is a hard-hitting investigative film uncovering how Moscow is expanding its influence across the Sahel as Western forces withdraw. “Shifting Alliances – Rising Against China’s Power” (52′, NGLOW) explores how Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan are deepening ties in response to China’s growing assertiveness. The history documentary “Masters of the Sea – The Role of Ships in Global History” (90′, Loopfilm) explores how maritime innovation and exploration have driven global trade, cultural exchange, and power shifts throughout history, laying the groundwork for today’s interconnected world.
Climate in Crisis: Our Changing Planet
Several standout titles examine the dramatic transformations reshaping Earth’s ecosystems, weather patterns, and glaciers. “Our New World” (3 x 52′, Boréales, Federation Studios, Lionfish Films, Terra Mater Studios) captures the profound shifts occurring across ecosystems and species worldwide, as climate change disrupts the familiar and reshapes the very identity of natural environments. “Expedition to the South Pole – Is Antarctica Melting?” (52′, ThurnFilm) joins top scientists aboard the Polarstern on a daring journey to uncover early signs of catastrophic sea-level rise. Meanwhile, “Requiem in White – Our Dying Glaciers” (52′, FREILUFTDOKU) delivers a scientific yet poignant and emotional tribute to the disappearing glaciers in the Alps, while “Flow: The Force of Weather” (2 x 52′, SPIEGEL TV, Primitive Entertainment) dives into the colossal natural flows of air, fire, and water that affect every aspect of life on Earth.
New Wildlife Perspectives
From hidden rivers in Mexico to the wide-open plains of East Africa, Autentic Distribution releases a new wave of wildlife storytelling with fresh perspectives of the natural world. “Mara: Rebirth” (2 x 52′, Wildlife Films, Terra Mater Studios) offers a striking portrait of life in the savanna beyond the famed wildebeest migration, revealing the deep resilience of the species that remain once the spectacle has passed. “Axolotl: Salamander from the Underworld” (45′, Nutshell Productions) explores a creature with seemingly mythical abilities: the axolotl is able to regrow limbs and resist aging. “The Whale Jail” (52′, Terra Mater Studios) is a gripping docu-thriller revealing the extraordinary power of compassion and persistence against seemingly insurmountable odds. Rounding out the slate is “The Nature of Christmas” (52′, Terra Mater Studios, Längengrad Filmproduktion), a globe-spanning exploration of the surprising links between wildlife and holiday tradition, from reindeer and robins to evergreen trees, blending festive charm with natural history in an unexpected and entertaining way.
Rethinking Mental Health
Two new timely documentaries in Autentic Distribution’s slate explore how technology and society are transforming our understanding of the human mind. “AI Therapy: The Algorithm Will See You Now” (52′, Moers Media) looks at the rise of artificial intelligence in mental health care, while the series “The 50 Shades of Mental Health” (10 x 30′, Berlin Producers) blends scientific insight with emotional storytelling and powerful imagery, making the series both enlightening and deeply moving.
People, Culture & Culinary Journeys
Autentic Distribution’s latest People & Places titles take viewers on a captivating journey to explore the richness of global heritage and traditions. “Frozen Worlds: Winter in Eastern Canada” (45′, EPorembny AMP Polska, Moers Media) showcases the resilience of communities living through some of the coldest winters on Earth. “The Whip Fighters of Indonesia” (45′, Kornkonzept) highlights the cultural significance and ritual behind this intense tradition. In addition, new seasons of audience favourites “The Magical World of Spices III” (4 x 45′, Moers Media) and the 15th season of “At Our Neighbour’s Table” (13 x 30′, Berlin Producers) continue to explore the deep-rooted culinary and cultural practices that bring people together, offering rich narratives that celebrate food, community, and heritage across the globe.
