The ninth edition of the Beyond Borders – Kastellorizo International Documentary Festival is set to enrapture audiences from 25 August-1 September, set against the captivating backdrop of the idyllic Greek island of Kastellorizo. This edition extends an invitation to viewers to challenge rigid dichotomies and dualities, with its central theme revolving around the concept of "twice a stranger". Once again, the picturesque island in the Aegean Sea is poised to evolve into a dynamic epicentre where the world of documentary filmmaking will converge with the intricate web of history and culture.

Concerning this year's theme, the festival dedicates its focus to the centenary of the population exchange between Greece and Turkey, and the widespread displacement of individuals from both sides of the borders. Going beyond surface-level narratives, the festival delves into the untold stories of those left behind. It questions and contemplates the lives of individuals who, for various reasons, were unable or unwilling to conform to dominant ideologies and perceptions, and instead found themselves in a perpetual quest for acceptance and reconciliation.

Last year's festival set a new record, with an impressive 835 film submissions representing 93 different countries. For this edition, Beyond Borders will feature 42 films in its competitive programme, divided into two sections: the Main Competition Section, which includes films of medium length (31-60 minutes) and feature length (61 minutes and above), and the μicro Competition Section for short films (up to 30 minutes in duration). It is worth noting that in the μicro section, only directors who have made up to three films have the exclusive right to submit. The festival has been extending invitations to documentary filmmakers worldwide to submit their works from the beginning of the year until 30 April. Submissions can be made through the FilmFreeway platform, and all of the relative information can be found on the festival website.

The goal of Beyond Borders is to showcase the endeavours of both seasoned and up-and-coming filmmakers, while also fostering international film production. The festival's programming and interests centre on documentaries that explore historical events and figures, tackle socio-political issues – be they contemporary or not – and advocate for human rights. It seeks narratives that delve into any cross-border themes, reflecting the contemporary concerns of cinematography in diverse forms. The call for submissions is open to films released within the past three years (2022-2024).

The ninth edition of Beyond Borders aims to honour the spirit of various individuals spanning past, present and future. Through its programme of films, book launches, art exhibitions, educational initiatives, lectures and musical performances, the festival attempts to highlight nuanced expressions of solidarity and humanity. Moreover, it seeks to rekindle the discourse on the defence of human rights worldwide through its artistic endeavours.

The poster for this year's event, courtesy of creative agency polkadot design, draws upon a profound rationale. The agency states, “A natural outcome of immigration is the blending of varied cultures. The exchange of opinions and ideas forms a palette as unique as the individuals who contribute to it. In visually portraying the poster, we delve into the colour impressions of these narratives.” Notably, the poster features an image from the documentary Scenes with My Father by Biserka Šuran, which clinched the Award for Best Historical Documentary at last year's festival (see the news).

Beyond Borders is organised by the Hellenic History Foundation (IDISME), in collaboration with Paris-based Ecrans des Mondes, and will take place under the patronage of HE the President of the Hellenic Republic, Ms Katerina Sakellaropoulou.