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 festival is a groundbreaking platform dedicated to shedding light on the inspirational tales of amateur athletes and niche sports enthusiasts who embrace challenges in the far corners of the globe. Through the medium of film, this festival aims to showcase the extraordinary stories and achievements of these everyday heroes, pushing the boundaries of physical and mental prowess.

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.

Join the Journey

For those interested in being part of this cinematic celebration of human determination, the submission process is now open. Filmmakers can find more information and submit their entries by visiting the official festival website at coupfilmfest.com

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.

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