Danish production scoops Prix Italia media award

Documentary examining the days preceding the fall of the Iron Curtain is victorious in Torino

Anders Østergaard’s documentary ‘1989’, produced for the public broadcaster DR about the final days before the fall of the Iron Curtain, has won a prestigious Prix Italia prize in the category ‘Best TV documentary of general and cultural interest’.

The media awards are among the oldest in the world, having taken place annually since 1948. The victory comes a year after DR enjoyed its biggest ever prize haul: 14 awards in 2014.

READ MORE: DR rakes in prestigious media awards

Østergaard’s film focuses on Hungary and the country’s border with western Europe – something that was appreciated by the jury.

“The documentary reveals some mysteries of recent history and highlights the important role Hungary played,” it stated.

“The result is extremely impressive, original and unprecedented.”

The documentary premiered in 2014, coinciding with the celebration of the 25th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall.

It will be shown again on Sunday evening on DRK.