Zeynep Guzel
Turkey
Overview
Zeynep Güzel reflects on her relationship with documentary filmmaking as an extension of her own being, where the camera becomes an extension of her body. She finds stories intuitively, discovering that these spontaneous moments, although they may seem random, reveal her unique style. For her, filmmaking is a space of connection with life and a way to explore the everyday through the intimacy of art. While she appreciates the precision of fiction filmmaking, it is in non-fiction where she finds the freedom to capture life as she perceives it.
Chapters
What led you to become a filmmaker?
What made you switch to non-fiction?
How did you end up becoming a film advisor?
What are the main needs of filmmakers?
What has changed in the documentary ecosystem in recent years?
Who do you recommend showing the first cut of a film to?
What opportunities and risks do labs offer filmmakers?
What advice would you give to filmmakers aspiring to reach a global audience?
What are the ethical boundaries in documentary filmmaking?
Bio
Zeynep Güzel is a filmmaker, consultant, and director of Doc Station at Berlinale Talents. She managed the Yeni Film Fund, established by Anadolu Kültür and the !f Istanbul Independent Film Festival. Zeynep directed and produced the documentary "Come Rain or Shine" (2019) and was the producer of two other documentaries: "Beginnings" (2013) and "Impressions of a Summer" (2020). Additionally, she works as a consultant in storytelling, grant writing, project pitching, and co-financing strategies, participating in programs such as Doc Toolbox at Berlinale EFM, DOK Leipzig Industry, and East Doc Platform.
Filmography
- Mendilim Kekik Kokuyor (2020)
- Yaz Kis Demeden (2019)
- Balans ve Manevra (2005)
