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Last year Hungary celebrated the one-hundredth birthday of an important literary magazine, Nyguat, meaning “West” (1908-41). Instead of choosing the documentation route, Hungarian TV turned to short fiction. Based on recently published correspondence between two famous writers in their twenties, both in love with the same woman, it depicts these two monumental literary persons as normal young men with flesh and blood, and at the same time it gives us a glimpse of the vibrant era of Hungarian literary life at the beginning of the last century. Could it have worked as a more traditional documentary?

The object is the most loved Finnish writer Mika Waltari, born 100 years ago. What a perfect moment to show some respect! But the starting point of the programme is skepticism. Was this writer so good? Why was he so well loved? The programme is an expedition from the suspicion to an end not foreseeable. How does the programme maker appeal to a varied audience with a rather subjective point of view? Why this format to profile a great man and yet not choose an admiring or worshipping stance? In general, is it a good idea to choose a director for an artist portrait who doesn’t even like the subject? Is reluctance a better starting point than admiration?

This innovative way to approach history uses a unique television format and has captivated young Colombian audiences. Rock and Pop stars as well as folk and traditional bands from all over the country sing and guide the audience to discover hidden episodes of the Colombian history. Each chapter introduces places, facts and charismatic leaders, the true heirs of the ancestral legacy. They raise their voices to tell their side, the “B-side”, the other side of official history. The first of its kind in Latin America and an innovative way to look at current cultural identity.

playboy who lost everything and everybody but survived the Dachau concentration camp. Coming to the USA, he became an admired example for comedians like Woody Allan, Dick Cavett and Eric Bogosian. And what do we see? Poignant moments in his life and career depicted by a puppet. Comments from his admirers without pictures.

Does this way of working make the documentary actually resemble its protagonist?