Attending CPH:DOX in Copenhagen was an incredible experience—an international hub where documentary filmmakers, sales agents, and broadcasters converge to shape the future of nonfiction storytelling. I was there to pitch Silver Screamers, my latest feature documentary about a spirited group of senior citizens coming together to make a horror film. And while the business of pitching is always an exhilarating challenge, this time, I found myself reflecting on something deeper.
The marketplace was buzzing with passionate filmmakers presenting their projects, and an equal number of dedicated buyers and broadcasters looking for the next compelling story. But the dominant themes at the forum—war, migration, climate change—made for a particularly heavy slate of films. These are, of course, critical issues that deserve attention, but after days of absorbing intense, often bleak subject matter, I felt an unexpected wave of fatigue. It’s always a hustle to chase financing and distribution slots, and when your project is competing with so many urgent and high-stakes stories, you have to wonder: where does a film like Silver Screamers fit into the landscape?
That’s when I realized—Silver Screamers is exactly the kind of project that offers a counterbalance. While many documentaries today rightfully demand action in response to crises, ours invites audiences to find joy, resilience, and creativity in unexpected places. It’s a celebration of storytelling, no matter your age. In a time where global dread can feel overwhelming, perhaps there’s just as much value in telling stories that lift people up. And judging by the enthusiasm I received from industry players at CPH:DOX, I’m not alone in thinking that audiences are hungry for inspiration.
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