Beyond Borders: A Cinematic Showcase of Humanity in Kastellorizo 

The Beyond Borders International Documentary Festival stands as a beacon for cinematic excellence and social consciousness. Held annually in the enchanting setting of Kastellorizo, Greece, the festival attracts a diverse array of filmmakers from around the world. Their work serves as a powerful lens on the complexities of the human experience, exploring themes of displacement, migration, culture, and social justice.

With a curated selection of over 763 submissions from 95 countries, the festival promises a diverse and thought-provoking lineup. From the gripping narratives of the Main Competition to the impactful shorts of the μicro Competition, viewers will be immersed in stories that challenge perspectives and inspire change.

Awards That Ignite Change

Beyond Borders presents a series of prestigious awards to recognize and support outstanding storytelling. The Golden Wreath of Megisti, the festival's grand prize, honours films that exemplify the highest standards of documentary filmmaking while addressing critical social issues. Additional awards, such as the Silver and Bronze Wreaths, as well as distinctions for best Greek documentary and best documentary by a Greek director in the diaspora, celebrate a wide range of cinematic achievements.

Kastellorizo: A Mediterranean Gem

The festival's choice of Kastellorizo as its home is no coincidence. This idyllic Greek island provides a stunning backdrop for a celebration of human connection. Beyond the screenings, the festival offers a rich cultural experience, with opportunities to explore the island's history, cuisine, and warm hospitality.

By combining world-class filmmaking with a unique location, Beyond Borders creates an unforgettable experience for both filmmakers and attendees.

Throughout the week, musical interludes by Aeolian Duet (Michalis Kontos and Rea Moraiti) will feature piano and cello sounds, offering romantic melodies from Chopin’s nocturnes to operatic arias and retro-inspired romantic pop songs.

Workshops for all ages will include: EKOME’s experiential film workshops “And yet… we move!” in collaboration with the French organization Films pour enfants. “Cine(summary) in the classroom”, shadow theatre performances, traditional dances from all over Greece for children and fairy-tale musical journeys for children up to 10 years. There will also be a sculpture exhibition by artist Alexandros Zygouris.

Journalist and author Pavlos Methenitis and academic Matteo Campagnolo present daily books with historical, literary, and cinematic content. These include Bruce Clark’s book Twice a Stranger; the reissue of Tatiana Stavrou’s book on the Greek Literary Society of Constantinople (1967) by IDISME; and the historical album “At the Edge of the Aegean—Kastellorizo, 1890-1948” by N. Papanastasiou and N. Vogiatzis.

See the films in the competition here