Is the future of documentary filmmaking reserved for celebrity stories or filmmakers with independent means? As funding becomes increasingly concentrated around high-profile subjects, what space remains for original, independent voices? Acclaimed director Jeanie Finlay, director Gavin Fitzgerald (LOMU), DCU’s Tom Burke, and producer and chair Daniel Hegarty examine the economics of documentary today, asking who gets funded, what gets left behind, and whether independent documentary can still be a viable career.

Followed by refreshments and a networking even in the IFI Café Mezzanine. This event is kindly supported by DCU.

Notes by Sunniva O’Flynn.

This event is part of the IFI Documentary Festival 2026.