Introduction:
Welcome to the eagerly anticipated Greek Film Festival 2023! Get ready for an unforgettable cinematic journey that will immerse you in the rich tapestry of Greek culture, history, and creativity. This year’s festival is a celebration of Greek cinema that promises to leave you spellbound. With an enticing lineup of new releases, timeless classics, and special tributes, this event is set to transport you to the heart of Greek storytelling.
Opening Night: Behind the Haystacks:
The festival kicks off on October 19th with the opening night featuring Asimina Proedrou’s “Behind the Haystacks.” Screen International hails it as an “intense psychological study of murky morality.” This award-winning feature film delves into the complexities of the 2015 refugee crisis in Greece through the eyes of morally questionable family members. Starring Stathis Stamatopoulos, Eleni Ouzounidou, Evgenia Lavda, and Paschalis Tsarouhas, it promises to be an unforgettable experience.
Tribute to Irene Papa:
A special tribute is dedicated to the legendary Greek actress Irene Papa, known for her iconic roles in films like “The Guns of Navarone,” “Zorba the Greek,” and “Z.” Irene Papa’s contribution to Greek cinema and her place in film history are celebrated with fondness.
Commemorating 80 Years from Thessaloniki to Auschwitz:
In a poignant tribute, the festival commemorates the 80th anniversary of the deportation of the Jews of Thessaloniki. The documentary screenings offer an exceptional opportunity to reflect on this historical tragedy.
Documentaries and Q&A Sessions:
The 2023 Greek Film Festival isn’t just about feature films. It’s also a platform for thought-provoking documentaries. Don’t miss “Voices in Deep” by Jason Raftopoulos, and the highly anticipated “George Bizos Icon.” Engage in Q&A sessions with the directors and producers after screenings, offering a deeper understanding of the creative process.
The Heartfelt Endeavor:
The Greek Film Festival is a collaborative effort presented in Victoria by the Greek Community of Melbourne and in New South Wales by the Greek Orthodox Community of NSW. It’s an event that brings the diverse world of Greek cinema to the screens of Palace Cinemas, uniting audiences from various backgrounds.
A Glimpse into the Future:
The festival goes beyond mainstream cinema with the inclusion of the 1st Greek animated Kids Film and the 11th Student Film Festival 2023. These segments showcase the emerging talent and the innovative future of Greek filmmaking.
London Greek Film Festival 2023: A Global Perspective:
Not only does Greek cinema shine in Australia, but it also makes its mark on the global stage. The London Greek Film Festival 2023, presented under the auspices of the Secretary General for Greeks Abroad and Public Diplomacy, promises an international celebration of Greek cinema.
London Celebrates Greek Cinema:
The London Greek Film Festival is proudly supported by the Greek Embassy in London and the Hellenic Centre in London. This event is a testament to the power of Greek cinema to connect with international audiences.
A Message from Greece:
The festival was greeted with a heartfelt video message by the Secretary General for Greeks Abroad and Public Diplomacy, Mr. John Chrysoulakis, adding a touch of official recognition to the event.
Ambassadorial Support:
The Greek Embassy in London extends its support to the festival, with Ambassador Mr. Ioannis Tsaousis. Ms. Mariana Varvarrigou, General Counsellor – Head of the Public Diplomacy Office, represents the embassy and takes part in award presentations.
A Multifaceted Event:
The London Greek Film Festival features a dynamic program that includes awards presented by Ms. Stavroula Metaxa and Mr. Stefanos Dimitriadis from the Public Diplomacy Office of the Greek Embassy. Awards are also presented by Ms. Nayia Yiakoumaki, Director of the Hellenic Centre in London, and correspondent Mr. Thanasis Gavos.
Cultural Fusion:
The festival’s Awards Ceremony includes a mesmerizing 10-minute performance titled “When Flamenco Meets Byzantium.” This choreographic fusion blends Flamenco dance with “Byzantine” dance movements, creating a unique and captivating experience.
Promoting Greek Culture:
The London Greek Film Festival has a deep connection with the International Epidaurus Film Festival in Greece. This partnership demonstrates the global influence of Greek cinema.
A Decade of Excellence:
Since its inception in 2008, the London Greek Film Festival has been a beacon for contemporary Greek cinema. It brings together filmmakers, artists, and writers from Greece and its diaspora, as well as international creators with a connection to Greece or Cyprus.
Celebrating Greek Culture:
The festival promotes Greek culture in all its forms, from film-making and filming in Greece and Cyprus to the positive image of Greece and Cyprus abroad. It’s a platform for new technologies, academic and artistic research, and innovation in cinema, theatre, and the arts.
Diverse Categories:
The London Greek Film Festival includes various film categories, such as feature fiction, short fiction, documentary, video art, experimental film, music video, and animation. Additionally, screenplay categories for feature fiction and short fiction provide a platform for creative storytelling.
Recognizing Excellence:
The festival offers prestigious awards, including the Odysseus Awards (since 2008), Cosmocinema Awards (since 2018), and Acting Code Awards (since 2022). These awards acknowledge outstanding contributions to Greek cinema and storytelling.
A Visionary Leader:
The driving force behind the London Greek Film Festival is Christos Prosylis, a film and theater director, artist, and writer. As the Founder and Artistic Director, he has played a pivotal role in shaping the festival’s success.
Conclusion:
With the 2023 Greek Film Festival and the London Greek Film Festival, Greek cinema takes center stage on the world platform. These events showcase the creativity, storytelling, and cultural richness of Greece and its people. Don’t miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of Greek cinema, whether you’re in Australia or London. It’s a journey that promises to entertain, educate, and inspire. Get ready to be captivated by the magic of the silver screen and the stories that connect us all.
Note:
- The 2023 Greek Film Festival will run from October 19 to 29 in Melbourne and Sydney.
- The London Greek Film Festival is a global celebration of Greek cinema and culture.
