Beyond Borders Open Call for film submissions, poetry and lyrics
Beyond Borders
Kastellorizo International Documentary Festival
Open Call for film submissions
& Open Call for poetry and lyrics
Beyond Borders | Kastellorizo International Documentary Festival is back with its 10th edition, taking place from August 24 to 31, 2025. Following the success of the previous edition, which received 763 film submissions from 95 countries, the Festival is now open for film entries from Greek and international documentary filmmakers. Submissions are accepted from January 3 to April 30, 2025.
Strategic Partner of Beyond Borders is PPC S.A., the leading energy company in Southeast Europe. PPC actively supports arts and culture, fostering a dialogue with creativity and innovation. As a vital part of Greece’s social and economic fabric, PPC helps shape a brighter future where culture leads the way.
Competitive Programme
In its 10th edition, the Festival will showcase 42 films in its competitive programme, comprising:
Main Competition Section: Medium-length (31-60 minutes) and feature-length films (61+ minutes).
μicro Competition Section: Short films (up to 30 minutes) created by filmmakers with no more than three films to their credit.
The Festival aims to highlight the work of both seasoned and emerging filmmakers, promoting international cinematic production. To this end, 11 awards with a total value of €27,500 will be granted, providing tangible support to documentary creators.
Inspiring and Thought-Provoking Themes
Beyond Borders focuses on documentaries that delve into historical events and personalities, sociopolitical issues, human rights and cross-border themes,reflecting the concerns and trends of contemporary cinema. Eligible films must have been produced within the last three years (2023-2025).
Submission Process
Filmmakers can submit their entries via the FilmFreeway platform or the special submission form on the Festival’s website. Participation terms and conditions are available on the Festival’s official webpage.
A Bridge of Culture Connecting Greece and the World
The 10th edition of Beyond Borders aspires to become a key reference point in the international documentary scene, offering invaluable opportunities for filmmakers to gain exposure and network. This year’s program highlights Greek documentaries, showcasing their vibrancy and diversity through carefully curated screenings. These narratives bridge tradition with contemporary realities, underscoring Greece’s creative contribution to the global cinematic community.
Set against the stunning backdrop of Kastellorizo, the Festival is ready to welcome filmmakers, professionals and documentary enthusiasts from around the world.
Beyond Borders 2025: Poetry & Lyric Writing Competition Inspired by Kastellorizo
Beyond Borders – Kastellorizo International Documentary Festival returns in August 2025 for its 10th anniversary edition, introducing a new and unique initiative that merges the power of words and art with cultural heritage, marking a decade since the Festival’s inception.
Under the title “Kastellorizo: Reflections”, this year’s competition, dedicated to poetry and lyric writing, invites young creators to express their thoughts, emotions, and imagination. Drawing inspiration from the island’s history, traditions, customs, and the notion of “frontier identity” that defines Kastellorizo, participants are encouraged to convey, through language, the island’s uniqueness and cultural richness.
Submissions should highlight the cultural identity of Kastellorizo and its connection to history, customs, and traditions. Participants may submit either poems (metrical or free verse) or song lyrics, fostering a dialogue between lyricism and melody.
For more information and application forms, visit here the official website of the Festival.
For Festival photos, click here.
For further information, visit www.beyondborders.gr or contact the Festival at info@beyondborders.gr. Stay updated on all Beyond Borders activities and news by following us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn.
Organiser: Hellenic History Foundation (IDISME) in collaboration with the French organization Ecrans des Mondes.
