Directors of 2025's Top Docs Unveil Their Next Big Hits at SCAD Savannah Film Fest

"The Docs to Watch Panel: A Sneak Peek at the Year's Most Compelling Documentaries" As I stepped into the Lucas Theatre on a crisp autumn evening, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement and anticipation. The SCAD Savannah Film Festival was about to unveil its annual "Docs to Watch" panel, a 90-minute discussion that would bring together some of the most talented documentary filmmakers from around the world. For the 12th year in a row, I had been honored to moderate this panel, and I couldn't wait to dive into the stories, challenges, and triumphs of these cinematic storytellers. The SCAD Savannah Film Festival has long been a haven for film enthusiasts, industry professionals, and anyone curious about the art of storytelling. As the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences prepares to vote on its Oscar shortlists, this festival serves as a vital preview of the year's most compelling documentaries. And this year was no exception. The 10 documentary features selected for the "Docs to Watch" panel were a testament to the diversity and richness of non-fiction filmmaking. From the hauntingly beautiful "2000 Meters to Andriivka," which explores the human cost of war, to the poignant "My Mom Jayne," a heartwarming tribute to a devoted mother, each film offered a unique perspective on the world we live in. As I introduced the panelists, I couldn't help but notice the sense of camaraderie and shared passion among them. These filmmakers had poured their hearts and souls into their projects, often facing incredible challenges along the way. But it was this very dedication that made their stories so compelling, so relatable, and ultimately, so impactful. One of the standout films on the panel was "The Alabama Solution," a gripping exposé of corruption and deceit in one of America's most iconic institutions. Director Francisco Proner's unflinching look at the dark underbelly of politics left the audience stunned and inspired to take action. Another highlight was "Come See Me in the Good Light," a tender exploration of identity, community, and belonging. Director Noah Collier's film was a poignant reminder that even in the darkest times, there is always hope for connection and understanding. But what struck me most about this panel was the way each filmmaker approached their subject matter with empathy, curiosity, and a deep respect for the human experience. Whether they were tackling complex social issues or sharing intimate personal stories, these directors demonstrated a commitment to truth-telling that was both inspiring and humbling. As the evening drew to a close, I couldn't help but feel grateful for this opportunity to bring together such an incredible group of storytellers. The "Docs to Watch" panel was more than just a showcase of exceptional filmmaking – it was a celebration of the power of documentary cinema to educate, inspire, and challenge us. As the audience filed out of the Lucas Theatre, I knew that these films would stay with them long after the credits rolled. They would spark conversations, ignite passions, and maybe even change lives. And for that, we had the talented directors on this panel to thank – their dedication to their craft, their commitment to truth-telling, and their willingness to share their stories with the world. The SCAD Savannah Film Festival's "Docs to Watch" panel was a testament to the enduring power of documentary filmmaking. It reminded us that even in the most trying times, there is always hope for connection, understanding, and transformation. And it left me feeling grateful, inspired, and eager to see what these incredible storytellers will create next. *Based on reporting by Hollywoodreporter.*