Docs Beyond is a professional training programme for documentary producers, directors, screenwriters, distributors and other film professionals working in the Czech Republic. Designed for feature-length documentary projects in production or post-production, the programme helps participants think beyond the final cut: how to reach the right audiences, build meaningful impact strategies and approach generative AI responsibly and effectively.
Across two online workshops and one residential workshop, 12 selected teams will develop practical strategies for their own projects under the guidance of experienced international tutors. The programme combines practical project work, expert feedback and exchange between participants.
Three interconnected modules
The programme consists of three interconnected modules covering impact producing, audience design and outreach, and the responsible use of generative AI in documentary filmmaking.
Participants join either Module 1 or Module 2 as their specialised track. Both groups then come together for the shared Module 3. 
Module 1: Impact Producing (6 teams)
Head of studies: Khadidja Benouataf
How can the subject of a documentary become the foundation of a realistic and effective impact strategy? This module focuses on identifying relevant partners and organisations connected to the film’s subject, developing distribution strategies with a social goal in mind and defining outcomes that can be measured rather than simply hoped for. Participants will begin shaping an impact strategy tailored to their project and its social goals. 
Module 2: Audience Design & Outreach (6 teams)
Head of studies: Paul Rieth
Thinking about audiences does not have to begin only after a film is completed. This module explores how audience thinking can shape a documentary from an early stage. Participants will learn to identify who their film is for, map the communities connected to its subject and design outreach strategies that can genuinely reach them. The module also examines how audience insights can support outreach and distribution planning throughout the life of a project.
Module 3: AI & Documentary (shared by all 12 teams)
Head of studies: Dominic Lees
Generative AI is changing how documentaries are developed, produced and distributed, while raising important ethical questions for filmmakers. This shared module offers a practical and grounded introduction to the ways AI tools can be used in documentary work, as well as the boundaries filmmakers need to consider. It brings together both specialised tracks and opens up a discussion about the opportunities and ethical challenges that generative AI presents for documentary filmmaking.
Programme format and dates
The programme takes place across two online blocks and one residential workshop. The working language of the programme is English.
1st online block
- 7–9 October 2026
- The first online block marks the beginning of the programme and the participants’ work on their individual projects.
Residential workshop
- 25–29 November 2026
- The five-day residential workshop offers intensive project work, expert feedback and dedicated time with tutors and fellow participants. Venue to be confirmed.
2nd online block
- 9–11 December 2026
- The second online block concludes the programme and the participants’ work on the strategies developed for their projects.
Organiser and partners
Docs Beyond: Audience, Impact & AI is organised by the Institute of Documentary Film in cooperation with the Audiovisual Producers’ Association.
The programme is supported by the Czech Audiovisual Fund and the Ministry of Culture of the Czech Republic.
Contact
Programme Manager: Veronika Janatková – janatkova@dokweb.net
Programme Coordinator: Nora Särak – sarak@dokweb.net