Márgenes gears up to celebrate independent cinema
by Cineuropa
- The call for entries for the 13th Madrid International Film Festival is now open for both international and Spanish filmmakers

The 13th edition of the Madrid International Film Festival, also known as Márgenes, is set to unspool from 24 November-3 December 2023 in the Spanish capital. As the call for entries opens, filmmakers around the world are invited to submit their works for consideration in two competitive sections: the Official Section, with a global focus; and Escáner, dedicated exclusively to Spanish cinema. This festival showcases independent auteur cinema, blending the creativity of emerging talent with the seasoned visionaries of contemporary filmmaking.
Márgenes holds a distinctive position in the film-festival circuit, emphasising artistic and personal perspectives in filmmaking while embracing innovative propositions and recognising the most promising filmmakers of the moment. With a commitment to nurturing and celebrating independent cinema, this international event serves as a platform to amplify the voices of talented filmmakers and highlight their unique stories.
The festival's Official Selection is an international competition that showcases films characterised by outstanding cinematic quality. This section highlights singular and visionary practices in contemporary cinema, providing a platform for renowned directors and emerging voices alike.
Escáner, on the other hand, is a national competitive section exclusively dedicated to Spanish films. This strand encourages fresh audiovisual narratives and artistic visions in Spanish cinema, with a particular emphasis on first and second feature films.
Films eligible for submission to both sections must have been produced from 1 January 2023 onwards, with a minimum duration of 40 minutes. This ensures that the festival remains a platform for showcasing fresh, contemporary works from around the world.
Filmmakers interested in participating in the gathering can submit their works from now until 16 July 2023, at 23:59 hours (GMT+2). Registration is completely free, and only online submissions through FilmFreeway will be accepted. To submit your film, please click here.
Márgenes is organised by the Asociación Cultural Cine en Ruta and is supported by Madrid City Council.
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