Ivar Laanen

Ivar Laanen is a versatile media professional with extensive experience in documentary filmmaking, research, and journalism. Currently serving as Creative Director and Head of Research at Popcorn Brain since October 2019, Ivar utilizes a journalistic background to inspire creative concepts. In addition to moderating Q&A sessions at the International Documentary Film Festival Amsterdam, Ivar holds the role of Head of Research at Dead Pixel BV and previously worked as a Video Journalist at The Defiant, where a notable project involved covering a money laundering case linked to a Russian developer. Past roles include editor at Optimist Daily, staff writer at Erasmus Magazine, and sports journalist during the European Universities Games. Ivar holds a Bachelor's degree in International Bachelor Communication and Media from Erasmus University Rotterdam.