Ina Fichman, Producer of ‘Heart of Love,’ Discusses the Future of Hot Docs

Ina Fichman, the producer of the Oscar-nominated film “Hearth of Love,” made waves at the twenty-fifth edition of the Sizzling Docs Forum with her latest project pitch, “Ba’s Book.” Directed by Canadian filmmaker Ashley Da-Le Duong, the hybrid documentary delves into Duong’s father’s experiences during the Vietnam War and the Iranian Revolution.

During the pitch session, Duong shared a poignant moment from her father’s past, recounting how he escaped the horrors of war only to face displacement and homelessness during the Iranian Revolution. This personal story serves as the foundation for “Ba’s Book,” which aims to explore the legacy of forced displacement and civil war on families and communities.

Fichman, a Canadian-based producer, also showcased three other documentaries at Sizzling Docs this year: “Adrianne and the Fortress,” “7 Beats Per Minute,” and “The Bones.” Following the successful pitch of “Ba’s Book,” Fichman discussed the documentary distribution landscape and the future of Sizzling Docs with Variety.

Reflecting on her long history with the festival, Fichman emphasized the importance of understanding Sizzling Docs’ roots and envisioning its future. She acknowledged the challenges facing the festival, including recent staff departures, but remained optimistic about its potential for growth and evolution.

As a board member of both Sizzling Docs and the International Documentary Association (IDA), Fichman highlighted the importance of clear vision and strategic planning in navigating organizational changes. She emphasized the need for thoughtful leadership and a forward-thinking approach to ensure the success and sustainability of both organizations.

Overall, Fichman’s insights shed light on the evolving landscape of documentary filmmaking and the critical role of festivals like Sizzling Docs in supporting and showcasing groundbreaking work in the industry.