Co – production forum of Beyond Borders
This year (2024) saw the launch of Beyond Borders’ new initiative, the Co-Production Forum “Meeting Your Next Co-Producer in Kastellorizo.” Most of the films showcased at Beyond Borders deal with universal issues and are often co-productions between multiple countries. However, the journey from a film’s concept to its creation and screening at the festival is a long and demanding process. Peer filmmakers—creators, screenwriters, directors, producers, and executive producers—gathered for two-hour lunchtime meetings from August 26 to 29 to present their works, share experiences from completed films, and support at least two documentary projects, guiding them toward co-production with a preference for underrepresented countries.
Encountering Your Next Co-producer in Kastellorizo
Apostle’s Forum
An Innovative Co-production Incubator for Emeritus Filmmakers by invitation only
A New Initiative at the Beyond Borders | Kastellorizo International Documentary Festival
Beyond Borders is proud to present a curated selection of exceptional, thought-provoking documentaries that explore historical, social and political issues that transcend national boundaries. Through an open call for films in the main competition and selected invitations to a thematic Panorama section, the Festival anchors its core activities. With eight successful editions behind it, the festival has established itself as a major event in the audiovisual and cinematographic community in the region and beyond.
As it prepares for its 9th edition in August 2024, the Festival aims to further contribute to the documentary sector. The aim is not only to showcase outstanding works, but also to collaboratively explore and support the production of powerful documentaries.
Stories that Transcend Borders
Most of the films presented in Beyond Borders are the result of transnational or international collaborations, often involving co-productions between several countries. While rooted in specific local contexts, these documentaries address universal issues. The local stories illustrate situations and events that could happen anywhere, allowing viewers to connect with the reality of the film regardless of their geographical location.
The Journey of Making a Film
By the time a documentary reaches the festival audience, it has been through a long and complex process, transforming from a simple idea into a finished film. This journey requires funding, connections, permissions, technical skills, talent and experience. Emeritus filmmakers, with their extensive expertise, are uniquely equipped to navigate this process.
What is an “Emeritus Filmmaker”?
An Emeritus filmmaker possesses a blend of creative vision, financial acumen, organizational experience, communicative talent, practical expertise, and an audacious attitude. These filmmakers are auteurs, writers, directors, producers, and executive producers who embody these qualities. For this new initiative, these distinguished individuals are referred to as “Apostles.”
How Many “Apostles” Are Needed?
During the Beyond Borders Festival in August 2024, approximately 15 Emeritus filmmakers, or Apostles, will be assembled, each with a specific documentary project. These Apostles will present their projects, share their experiences from completed films and support at least one other documentary project with passion and advice. This initiative, called the Apostles’ Forum, may rely in part on online participation due to limited funding.
Project Eligibility
All types of feature documentary projects are welcome. However, given the festival’s focus on the Eastern Mediterranean, the Middle East and Asia Minor, extending to Iran, projects relating to this under-represented region are encouraged. The Forum will take place during the weekdays of the festival (26 August to 29 August) from 16:30 to 18:30 in the lobby of the Megisti Hotel. The aim is to create an environment conducive to the formation of co-productions through inspiring encounters.
How Does a Session Work?
Each two-hour session will combine project discussions with broader conversations about the evolving landscape of international production and co-production. Topics will cover a wide range of current issues in filmmaking, from the role of platforms to the impact of AI on filmmaking. Sessions will include discussions on relevant issues and presentations by three Apostles, who will share insights from their territories and information on their current and past projects.
Summary
The Apostle’s Forum aims to bring together approximately 15 Emeritus Filmmakers during the Beyond Borders | Kastellorizo International Documentary Festival. These filmmakers will present co-producible feature-length documentary projects of a socio-political or social nature. Each Apostle will also be open to supporting and possibly adopting a new project presented at the Forum.