29th Greek Film Festival in Melbourne kicks off in style at The Astor Theatre

·

The 29th Greek Film Festival kicked off at the Astor Theatre on Tuesday, October 15 with a vibrant atmosphere, despite the absence of several prominent Melbourne figures. The premiere of Thodoros Niarchos’ romantic comedy Hear Who’s Talking clashed with Governor Margaret Gardner’s reception for His-All Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, leading to a noticeable lack of VIPs in the downstairs seating area.

However, the upstairs balcony was packed with hundreds of enthusiastic filmgoers, creating a lively and festive atmosphere. Maria Kakmi and Maria Afentoulidis, who have been attending the festival for years, expressed their love for the event. 

“We always come on opening night. It’s our tradition,” Ms Kakmi said. “We come together and have a fantastic time.”

Maria Kakmi and Maria Afentoulidis come to the Greek Film Festival every year regardless of what is playing.
Maria Bakalidou and Pam Pollalis.
Lights, cameras, action… let the 29th Greek Film Festival Begin.
Leonidas Vlahakis officially declares the Greek Film Festival open.
Leonidas Vlahakis turns his back to the audience to take his annual film festival selfie.

Hear Who’s Talking proved to be a hit with the audience, leaving many with smiles on their faces. Leonidas Vlahakis, head of the Greek Community of Melbourne’s Cultural Committee, expressed his satisfaction. 

“We are so glad that everyone left with a smile on their dial!” he said. “The next two weeks are going to be a rollercoaster ride of emotions and we welcome everybody to come along and enjoy the show!” 

While Greek Consul General to Melbourne, Emmanuel Kakavelakis. was unable to attend, consulate staff member Dimitrios Tsilikis represented him. Mr Tsilikis emphasised the importance of celebrating Greek cinema and the deep connections that unite the Greek community worldwide. 

“Today, we not only celebrate the rich tapestry of Greek cinema but also honour the deep roots that connect us regardless of whether we are in the world,” Mr Tsilikis said.

Photo: Constantly Flashing – Peter Kakalias.

Beyond the films, the festival offered a tantalising culinary journey for the taste buds. Helena Alatsas from Bahari showcased her new ready-made meal delivery service, Phlavour, which offers “spitisia” (home-made) dishes. 

“We’ve sponsored the festival for years, but this time we wanted to present our newest product of home-cooked meals for busy families, working mothers, and we even offer high-protein training meals for Richmond Football Club,” she said.

Procal Yoghurt also made its presence felt, offering samples of their delicious product. Shareholder Eleanor Thyssen, the family’s daughter-in-law, gave out samples of yoghurt. 

Procal Sales Manager Eve Vafiadis said, “Eleanor’s late husband developed this yoghurt that he wanted to taste of trips to Greece with his dad. It takes you back to your roots, as do films.”

Betty Dimitropoulos and Denise Zapantis, a staple at Melbourne’s Greek-Australian events!
Daphne and Christina.
Helena Alatsas and her team offering home-made delicacies.

While some cinema goers will feel nostalgia as they travel to Greece through films, there’s a lot to offer younger cinema goers also. Maria Bakalidou, principal of the Greek Orthodox Community Schools of Melbourne and Victoria, expressed her enthusiasm for the 12th Greek Student Film Festival, which will take place at the Como on October 27th. She encouraged students to participate and explore the Greek language through filmmaking.

“I’m a passionate supporter of the students’ film festival because it allows children to be creative and explore the language in a fun way,” she said. “During this time of the year we see students happy to come to school, to have a good time and enjoy a positive experience.” 

A standout moment of the night was the giveaway of a return flight to Greece, generously offered by Scoot.

The film festival runs through to October 27th at Palace Cinemas, featuring 20 features, 8 documentaries, and captivating trailers from local businesses – including a journey through the diaspora’s history through the archives of The Greek Herald, the only Greek national daily in Australia.

For more information and to book tickets, please visit the official website of the Greek Film Festival.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

AHEPA NSW celebrates Greek heroism with unveiling of ‘Maniatisses’ painting

The unveiling of a new painting by artist Angela Kiki, titled ‘The Maniatisses’, marked a moving tribute by AHEPA NSW.

From Chadstone to the Galaxy Stage: How Chleo Eve uses pageants to champion change

Pageants have evolved into platforms where determined young women can make a name for themselves and stand up for causes they believe in.

Navigating menopause with confidence: A conversation with Greek women experts

The Food for Thought Network Inc. is inviting people to a significant online event focused on menopause awareness and empowerment.

Niki Louca shares recipe for the easiest five-minute Artisan Bread

Niki Louca from My Greek Kitchen shares her favourite recipe for the easiest five-minute Artisan Bread with The Greek Herald.

Dr Michael Festas to give seminar on the Peloponnese and the Greek Revolution

The Greek administration undertook the collection of statistical data concerning the population and settlements of the Peloponnese.

You May Also Like

Bouzouki player, Dean Georgalas, set to amaze in The Melbourne Rebetiko Ensemble

Dean Georgalas has been playing the bouzouki since age 9 but more recently, the COVID-19 pandemic forced him to adapt his music for the online world.

Turkey in review: The lira crisis, censorship controversy & COVID-19 trajectory

The measures implemented by President Erdogan in Turkey to combat the spread of COVID-19 have had an impact on the country's social and economic life.

Grandparents can contribute to NSW Premier’s future fund for kids

Grandparents will have the opportunity to help secure the future of their grandkids as part of a re-elected Liberal and Nationals plan.