PR ON THE GO July 18, 2023

Film Festival The Athletic Coup Opens Film Submissions

Untold Stories Of Athletes And Niche Sports From Around The World

The Athletic Coup was born out of a desire to uncover the inspirational stories of amateur athletes and niche sports performed in remote areas of the world. It premieres in May 2024 in Athens, Greece.

The call for entries is now open to filmmakers worldwide for documentaries, features, animation, and shorts. It also features a category of brand films for athletics tourism, outdoor sport travel, and fitness brands.

A new category in film.

The Athletic Coup is a new concept by Melanie Marten, founder of The Coup. It is a passion project to promote physical exercise and the community aspects of sports as crucial factors for mental balance.

Melanie Marten: "Discovering new facets of physical exercise is vital for motivation. Sport is not just for professional athletes but something everyone can do and benefits from throughout their lifetime. Our filmmakers tell stories of challenges that have been overcome, communities that have been created, and allow you to discover new sports disciplines for yourself. We push for a whole new category in film."

Through the art of film, The Athletic Coup showcases the incredible stories and accomplishments of amateur athletes who push their limits and break new ground. The festival promises to be a captivating journey that celebrates the indomitable spirit of athletes and the power of storytelling.

Nominee: Rebound

Directors: Tim Vervoort, Vincent Stevens, Gilles Simonet

Sebastien Bellin, a former professional basketball player, is leaving Brussels Airport on his way to New York. When he receives his boarding pass, a bomb goes off at Brussels Airport. He runs towards security when a second bomb explodes only a few feet away. Bellin nearly died on March 22nd, 2016, in a terrorist attack.

With some luck and help, he survived and, after 13 surgeries, kept his legs. Six years later, he did the Ironman Triathlon of Hawaii as a disabled athlete.

Filmmakers worldwide share your stories that capture the essence of athleticism in its purest form. Be a part of the celebration of the indomitable spirit of athletes.

Film submission guide:

The festival is open to all formats, from authentic documentaries to awe-inspiring shorts, features, comedies, cartoons, experimental films, and brand films.

The selection process is based on five pillars. Each film must meet ONE of these pillars:

1) athletic, self-motivational inspiration

2) the rarity of the sport depicted

3) a unique or special place where the sport is being played or practiced

4) the community aspect of the sport being featured

5) education about the health benefits of physical activity.

Filmmakers of selected films benefit from the inclusion in a global PR campaign powered by The Coup public relations.

Film submission information at coupfilmfest.com

Join the festival: Subscribe to the film festival’s newsletter and follow The Athletic Coup on Instagram @athleticcoup not to miss the festival date!

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