The 30th Greek Film Festival, presented by the Greek Community of Melbourne (GCM), officially opened on Tuesday, October 14, at the historic Astor Theatre, marking a milestone celebration of three decades of Greek cinema in Australia.
The sold-out Opening Night Gala featured the powerful epic Kapetan Mihalis, setting the tone for an extraordinary anniversary program.
Based on the classic novel by legendary writer Nikos Kazantzakis, Kapetan Mihalis has been adapted for the big screen for the first time, making its inclusion as the festival’s opening film a truly special event.
The film captivated audiences with its sweeping portrayal of freedom, resilience, and the indomitable spirit of Crete, resonating deeply with the festival’s themes of identity and heritage.
Guests arrived at the historical Astor Theatre where they were welcomed by dancers from the Cretan Brotherhood of Melbourne and Victoria performing to the sounds of the Cretan lyra, enjoying meals provided by Phlavour, drinks from Hellenic Wines + Spirits, and commemorative 30th-anniversary tote bags filled with sponsor gifts before taking their seats for the highly anticipated screening.
Before the film, guests were welcomed by Dr Jim Bossinakis, Chair of GCM’s Cultural Programs Committee, Dimitra Georgantzoglou, Consul General of Greece in Melbourne, and Bill Papastergiadis OAM, President of the GCM, who reflected on the festival’s 30-year legacy and the enduring importance of Greek cinema in Australia.
“As Chair of the Cultural Programs Committee, I am honoured to open the 30th Greek Film Festival and celebrate three decades of bringing Greek stories to Australian screens,” Dr Bossinakis said in his opening.
“This year’s program features over 100 screenings, including 16 new releases and classics like Little England, Brides, and A Touch of Spice. We also host the Australian premiere of Athens Midnight Radio and the world premiere of The Kink. The festival’s success is thanks to our dedicated team, partners, sponsors, and audiences who make this Australia’s largest Greek film festival.”
Ms Georgantzoglou said: “It was a great honour to attend the opening, with Kapetan Michalis a cinematic masterpiece. Celebrating 30 years, the festival has become a major cultural event for the Greek diaspora, showcasing Greek cinema from the 1990s to today, including works by Pantelis Voulgaris, Yorgos Lanthimos, and Yannis Charalabidis.”
GCM President Mr Papastergiadis OAM added: “I am proud to see the festival unite our community in celebrating Hellenic culture 17,000 kilometres from Greece. Events like this reflect our values of belonging, generosity, and community spirit, which remain at the heart of all we do, from festivals and theatre to education and charitable programs. Tonight’s screening, with Cretan music, captured that enduring spirit of connection and pride.”
Following the screening, guests were treated to rakomelo and traditional kalitsounia, enjoyed the sounds of the Cretan lyra, as a vibrant gathering brought together filmmakers, festival guests, and community members in spirited conversation – toasting both the film and the 30-year legacy of the Festival.
The 30th Greek Film Festival continues until 26 October, with screenings across Melbourne at Palace Cinema Como, Pentridge Cinema, and Palace Balwyn Cinema. The program features world premieres, documentaries, and in-person Q&A sessions with visiting filmmakers.
For full program details and tickets, visit: https://greekfilmfestival.com.au/melbourne/films.
*All photos: Constantly Flashing Photography – Peter Kakalias
, officially opened Tuesday, October 14.){kind=link}