Critics’ Corner

One of the most engaging events of the 10th edition of the Beyond Borders | Kastellorizo International Documentary Festival was this year’s “Critics’ Corner”—a thought-provoking discussion that explored the contemporary challenges of film criticism through the perspectives of three experienced critics.

The “Critics’ Corner” has become an established feature of the festival since its introduction in 2020, following a proposal by Klaus Eder, then General Secretary of FIPRESCI, who envisioned a dedicated space for dialogue where critics could meet both audiences and filmmakers. Festival President Irini Sarioglou and Artistic Advisor and Director of International Development Michel Noll embraced the idea and brought it to life. Since then, FIPRESCI has maintained a steady presence in Kastellorizo, including the awarding of its own prize in the festival’s competition section.

This year’s event, set against the unique backdrop of the island, featured an open dialogue between FIPRESCI jury members Elli Mastorou, Jan Storø, and Nikolaos Aletras, who shared their views on the present and future of film criticism. The discussion also marked a special occasion, as it formed part of the global celebration of the 100th anniversary of the International Federation of Film Critics (FIPRESCI)—an organization that has played a decisive role in shaping international film discourse.

The conversation began with a shared observation: film criticism today is in a transitional phase. Topics included the challenges brought by the digital revolution and the rise of social media. While new media have given a voice to more people and created a more open ecosystem of exchange, the pressure for speed, simplification, and catchy headlines often undermines the depth and essence of criticism.

Elli Mastorou highlighted the enduring importance of quality and depth. In an era where critics are often expected to react instantly, she stressed that the true value of criticism lies not in speed but in the ability to shed light on a work through knowledge, analysis, and cultural context. For Mastorou, the critic’s role is not simply to evaluate but to educate audiences and cultivate cinematic awareness.

Jan Storø brought an international perspective, reflecting on the democratization of opinion. He emphasized that while public participation has broadened the conversation, the presence of specialized critics remains essential for interpreting and evaluating cinema. He also underlined the crucial role of FIPRESCI in connecting critics from different countries and cultures, fostering bridges of understanding and exchange.

Another focal point of the discussion was the relationship between criticism and film festivals. All participants agreed that festivals like Beyond Borders play a vital role in showcasing works that rarely find access to commercial distribution. Festivals serve as cultural laboratories where critics can discover new voices and give visibility to films that might otherwise go unnoticed.

The conversation also touched on the algorithm-driven era of digital streaming platforms. While access to content has never been easier, audiences often find themselves in “bubbles” of preference, limiting exposure to new and diverse works. Here, the critics agreed, lies the crucial value of film criticism: offering a human filter that transcends algorithmic logic and guides viewers toward unexpected discoveries.

The evening concluded on an optimistic note. Despite the challenges, there remains both space and need for well-founded, in-depth criticism. The future of film criticism lies not in rejecting new realities but in adapting to them while safeguarding its essence and mission.

Once again, the “Critics’ Corner” confirmed its unique role within Beyond Borders: reminding audiences and filmmakers alike that criticism remains alive, indispensable, and deeply connected to cinema’s cultural mission.

Participant Film Critics: Nikolaos Aletras (Greece), Elli Mastorou (Belgium) & Jan Storo (Norway).