#athens film festival

[schlock-luster-video]

On September 22, 2009, A Trip to the Moon was screened at the Athens Film Festival.

Here's some new fan art!

[scorpion-flower]

Ah yes, in a time when half of Greece is drowning because of the floods and the other half is burning because of the forest fires, Athens Film Festival arranged for Woody Allen (yes, the child rapist) to make an appearance her, because god forbid the event is cancelled both because of what is happening in Greece and because he is a freakin rapist.

The "best" part was artists who have supported the #MeToo movement in the past, rushing to get photographed with him.

If that's not normalization of grooming/rape, I don't know what is.

[kaliarda]

Το 29ο Διεθνές Φεστιβάλ Κινηματογράφου της Αθήνας Νύχτες Πρεμιέρας θα πραγματοποιηθεί από τις 27 Σεπτεμβρίου έως τις 9 Οκτωβρίου 2023.

[under-the-screen]

Past lives

«Καλή αντάμωση» 

Γι’αυτήν, είναι οι παιδικές αναμνήσεις που θυμίζουν τον πολιτισμικό διχασμό που υπέστη ως κορίτσι. Γι’αυτόν, είναι η υπόνοια του μοιραίου, όπως αυτή που διαβάζει στα βιβλία του, έναντι της σχέσης του που προέκυψε από μια τυχαία, συμβατική γνωριμία. Για τον τρίτο, είναι απλώς μοιρολατρεία που συμβολίζει ένα άλμα-γεφύρωση από το παρελθόν στο παρόν, που αγνοεί όλο το διάστημα που μεσολαβεί. Για τον Κορεάτη, παρελθόν και παρόν ταυτίζονται και η εξέλιξη και η πλαστικότητα του χαρακτήρα αμφισβητούνται, αντιθέτως, για την Κορεάτισσα, που πλέον μέσα της ποσοστώνονται οι δυο πολιτισμοί, το παρελθόν είναι μάλλον ο πυρήνας και το σημείο αφετηρίας μόνο της μετέπειτα πορείας. 

Περισσότερο με απασχόλησε η αμερικανο-κορεατική σχέση, γιατί είναι υπαρκτή, έχει ζωή και έχει χάσματα που πρέπει να γεφυρωθούν, με αυτό το τόσο συγκινητικό «στεναχωριέμαι που ονειρεύεσαι στα κορεάτικα γιατί δεν τα καταλαβαίνω». Η κορεο-κορεατική σχέση φέρει μόνο ένα άρωμα από την παιδική αθωότητα και αυτή την αγάπη στην καρδιά που ονομάζεται «πεπρωμένο», ενώ μάλλον θα έπρεπε να ονομάζεται απλώς “childhood”. 

Στον επίλογο, αν όντως όλες οι σχέσεις του παρόντος μας είναι το αποτέλεσμα του επιτυχημένου αθροίσματος των παρελθοντικών, συμπτωσιακών συναντήσεων μας, τότε αυτό είναι η πιο αισιόδοξη πλάνη στην οποία επιλέγουμε να πιστέ��ουμε.

★ : 4 / 5

[holytriumphnightmare]

12-12-2024: Pantelis Voulgaris before the screening of "Happy Day" (1976), Hall A, The Greek Film Archive, during the 13th Athens Avant Garde film festival

[jdweiss]

My 2023 film, Ἡ Ἀντανάκλασις (The Reflection), will be having its appropriately Greek Premiere next week at AGON International Archaeological Film Festival, screening on May 25 at the Greek Film Archive in Athens. I will be unable to attend, but Loose Fables creator Kat Ball will be there in my stead to represent the film as producer.

��

[immemorymag]

Georgia Ponirakou was born in October 1983. She studied Biology and Photography. She is a visual artist who works with film and is also a poet.

She uses both colour and black and white film, 35mm, medium format and Polaroid cameras. Her approach is diaristic as she documents her everyday life. She combines prints on different papers and printing methods to create zines and handmade artist books.

She has published five photo zines and two handmade zines in two copies each ("The quarantine diary" December 2020, F32.3, February 2021). Her first photobook about Makronissos (10 limited edition copies, 2019, Depression Era) was presented at the main exhibition of Medphoto Festival 2019, while her second book (Snowbed, 290 limited edition copies, Zoetrope Athens), which presents her personal story of depression, was published in Polycopies (November 2023). She has participated in group exhibitions at the Athens Photofestival (New found self 2017, Drowning land- Breathing water 2019) and several other exhibitions in Greece and abroad. Her first solo exhibition "Snowbed" took place in October 2021).

[theholmwoodfoundation]

THE HOLMWOOD FOUNDATION PILOT EPISODE CAST/CREW - PART ONE

REBECCA ROOT - MADDIE TOWNSEND/MINA HARKER

Rebecca trained at Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts. Theatre credits include A Midsummer Night’s Dream at Shakespeare’s Globe, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time for the National Theatre (UK and Ireland tour); Rathmines Road for Fishamble at the Abbey Theatre, Dublin; Trans Scripts at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and American Repertory Theater in Cambridge, Massachusetts; The Bear / The Proposal at the Young Vic; and Hamlet at the Gielgud Theatre and Athens International Festival. TV, Film and Video Game credits include Monsieur Spade, This Is Christmas, Irvine Welsh’s Crime, Hogwarts Legacy, Horizon Forbidden West, Heartstopper, Annika, The Rising, Sex Education, The Gallery, The Queen’s Gambit, Finding Alice, Creation Stories, Last Christmas, The Sisters Brothers, Colette, The Danish Girl, Flack, The Romanoffs, Moominvalley, Hank Zipzer, Boy Meets Girl, Doctors, Casualty, The Detectives, and Keeping Up Appearances.  Radio credits include Clare In The Community, Life Lines, The Hotel, and 1977 for BBC Radio 4. Guest appearances include Woman’s Hour, Front Row, Loose Ends, Saturday Live, and A Good Read.  She plays Tania Bell in the award-winning Doctor Who: Stranded audio dramas. Rebecca has also recorded numerous documentary narrations, audiobooks, and voice-overs. Rebecca is also a voice and speech coach, holding the MA in Voice Studies from Royal Central School of Speech and Drama.

SEAN CARLSEN - JEREMY LARKIN/ JONATHAN HARKER

Born in South Wales, Seán trained at the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama. He has worked extensively in audio drama, television, theatre and film.  Seán is perhaps best known to Doctor Who fans as Narvin in the Doctor Who audio series Gallifrey and has appeared on TV in Doctor Who - The Christmas Invasion and Torchwood. Recent TV credits include Mudtown (BBCiplayer/S4C), Dal y Mellt (Netflix), His Dark Materials (BBC1), All Creatures Great and Small (Channel 5), A Mother's Love (Channel 4) and Series 5 of Stella (Sky1).  Films include supporting leads in Boudica - Rise of the Warrior Queen, cult horror The Cleansing,  the lead in Forgotten Journeys and John Sheedy’s forthcoming film ‘Never Never Never’

SAM CLEMENS - ARTHUR JONES

Samuel Clemens trained at the Drama Centre London and is an award-winning director with over twenty years’ experience. Samuel has recently written and directed his debut feature film ‘The Waterhouse’ with Take The Shot Films & Featuristic Films and represented by Raven Banner Entertainment, which is due for release this coming year.  In addition, he has directed fourteen short films, winning awards all over the world including shorts ‘Surgery (multi-award winning), A Bad Day To Propose (Straight 8 winner 2021), Say No & Dress Rehearsal’. Samuel also directs critically acclaimed number one UK stage tours and fringe shows (Rose Theatre Kingston, Swansea Grand, Eastbourne, Yvonne Arnaud, Waterloo East Theatre) and commercials include clients JD Sports, Shell and Space NK. Samuel is also a regular producer and director for Big Finish Productions & Anderson Entertainment. He has cast, directed, produced and post supervised numerous productions of ‘Doctor Who – (BBC), The Avengers (Studio Canal), Thunderbirds, Stingray (Anderson Entertainment), Callan, Missy, Gallifrey’& Shilling & Sixpence Investigate’ and many more. Samuel has directed world class talent such as, Sir Roger Moore, Ben Miles, Tom Baker, Sylvester McCoy, Alex Kingston, Frank Skinner, Rita Ora, Rosie Huntingdon-Whiteley, Rufus Hound, David Warner, Celia Imrie, Samuel West, Youssef Kerkour, Sophie Aldred, Ian McNiece, Colin Baker, Olivia Poulet, Stephen Wight, Jade Anouka, Mimi Ndwendi, Michelle Gomez, Peter Davidson, Paul O’Grady and many more. Samuel is one of the founding members and directors at Take The Shot Films Ltd and is Head of Artistic Creation and Direction. Lastly, Samuel is a regular tutor at The London Film Academy, The Giles Foreman Centre for Acting & The Rose Youth Theatre and is a member of The Directors Guild UK. As for upcoming projects, Sam is currently in pre-production on his next feature film “On The Edge of Darkness”, which is based on his dad’s stage play “Strictly Murder”.

ATTILA PUSKAS - DRACULA

Attila Puskás is a native Hungarian Voice Actor born in Transylvania – Romania, so Romanian is in his bag of tricks too, but most of his work is done in English, in a Transatlantic Eastern European Accent, but is quite capable of Hungarian, Romanian and International Eastern European accents, plus Standard American. His voice range is Adult to Middle Aged (30-40+) due to his deep voice. Vocal styles can range from authoritive, brooding to calming and reassuring and much more. He’s most experienced in character work, like Animations and Games, but his skills encompass Commercials to Narration as well. He’s received training through classes and workshops, pushing him to the next level to achieve higher standards. Now on a journey to perfect these skills and put them to good use!

PART TWO: HERE

PART THREE: HERE

[mariacallous]

Ukrainian-Canadian filmmakers pulled their pro-Ukrainian film "Intercepted" from screening at the Windsor International Film Festival (WIFF) after learning that it would be featured in a lineup alongside the controversial "Russians at War" documentary, the Canadian media outlet Windsor Star reported on Oct. 26.

Canadian-Russian director Anastasia Trofimova's documentary Russians at War has faced criticism for what many perceive as an attempt to whitewash Russian soldiers involved in Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine. Earlier in her career, Trofimova worked for Russia Today, a Kremlin-backed propaganda outlet.

The documentary has been criticized for lacking a concrete counter-narrative to Russian propaganda, failing to address documented Russian war crimes, and does not offer a definitive critique of Putin's regime.

The movie was brought into the spotlight when it appeared on the official list of screenings at the prestigious Venice and Toronto film festivals.

According to the Windsor Star, Intercepted — a film that chronicles the work of Ukrainian intelligence agencies as it intercepts calls from Russian soldiers to family and friend — pulled out of the Canadian-based WIFF ahead of its opening night screening.

The decision to pull out comes amid widespread protest among Canada's large Ukrainian-Canadian diaspora.

Following protest, organizers at the Toronto International Film Festival decided to pull the film from the schedule, citing security concerns, but later decided to hold a special screening for the film after the end of the festival in September, drawing widespread criticism.

Controversy further spread as it was revealed the Russians at War film received $340,000 from the Canada Media Fund. Canadian government officials, including Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland, have strongly criticized the use of public funds to support a controversial documentary that portrays Russian soldiers fighting in Ukraine.

Despite protest from local members of the Ukrainian-Canadian diaspora, WIFF has not removed Russians at War from the festival's lineup — at odds with decisions made earlier this month at film festivals in Athens and Zurich to drop the film.

The director of Intercepted, Oksana Karpovych, could not be immediately reached by the Windsor Star for comment.

On Oct. 7, the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) began investigating Trofimova on the charges of justifying and recognizing the legitimacy of Russia's aggression against Ukraine and illegally crossing Ukraine's internationally recognized borders when filming in the Russian-occupied territories.

[hummussexual]

Alexander Durie 23 May, 2024

The Cannes Film Festival this year showcased screenings from the Middle East and North Africa that captured significant attention.

The New Arab has curated a list of the top seven films premiered there, and we highly recommend giving them a watch.

The Seed of the Sacred Fig (2024) 

Director Mohammad Rasoulof – Iran, France, Germany

In the bustling streets of Tehran, the life of Judge Iman takes a drastic turn when he discovers his gun missing, leading him to suspect his own family, including his wife and daughters. The film explores the intricate dynamics of familial relationships, as suspicion and distrust put their bonds to the ultimate test. 

Despite facing an eight-year prison sentence in Iran, Director Mohammad Rasoulof's determination to present this story at Cannes highlights the enduring power of artistic expression in challenging times.

Norah (2024) 

Director Tawfik Alzaidi – Saudi Arabia

Transporting audiences back to the conservative landscape of 1990s Saudi Arabia, Norah introduces us to Nader, a newly arrived teacher in a remote village, and Norah, a spirited young woman yearning for freedom. Their secret affair blossoms amidst the shadows of societal restrictions and impending danger, fueled by their shared passion for art and beauty.

Against the backdrop of a repressive society, the film serves as a reminder of the power of love and the human spirit's pursuit of liberation.

To a Land Unknown (2024)

Director Mahdi Fleifel – Palestine, UK, France, Germany, Greece, Netherlands, Qatar, Saudi Arabia

To a Land Unknown tells the story of Chatila and Reda, two Palestinian cousins in Athens, Greece, aiming for a better life in Germany. They face tough challenges as refugees, pushing themselves to their limits. Their journey highlights the struggles of seeking refuge and finding hope in difficult times.

Across the Sea (2024)

Director Saïd Hamich Benlarbi – Morocco, France, Belgium, Qatar

Across the Sea follows Nour, a young immigrant who comes to Marseille, France, for a better life. He faces tough challenges surviving on the outskirts of society, getting involved in small crimes with an uncertain future. But meeting Serge, a charismatic but unpredictable cop, and his wife Noémie, gives Nour hope.

The story spans from 1990 to 2000, showing Nour's search for love, identity, and belonging in a world that's changing fast.

East of Noon (2024) 

Director Hala Elkoussy – Egypt, Netherlands, Qatar

East of Noon welcomes viewers into a fantasy world rooted in Egyptian folklore. It follows young Abdou, a musical prodigy who defies tradition with his music. As Abdou's melodies resonate across the timeless landscape, he confronts the norms, embarking on a bold journey of self-discovery.

Director Hala Elkoussy's tale celebrates Egypt's cinematic heritage, with enchanting characters and captivating storytelling that transport audiences to a realm of limitless imagination.

The Brink of Dreams (2024)

Director Nada Riyadh & Ayman El Amir – Egypt, France, Denmark, Qatar, Saudi Arabia

In a remote village in Upper Egypt, a group of young girls breaks societal norms by forming a street theatre group. They dream of a life beyond their traditional upbringing. Through daring performances, they challenge the expectations of their Coptic families and local communities. Daughters of the Nile, filmed over four years, shows their journey from rebellious teens to empowered women.

This film is a powerful story of resilience and strength, capturing their universal longing for self-discovery and freedom.

Everybody Loves Touda (2024) 

Director Nabil Ayouch – Morocco, France, Belgium, Denmark, Netherlands, Norway

In the charming villages of Morocco, Touda dreams of a life beyond what society expects. She wants to become a Sheikha, a traditional Moroccan performer. Despite facing criticism from her community, Touda finds comfort in her music, singing about resistance, love, and freedom. Every night, she performs in local bars, her voice filling the streets as she imagines a better future for herself and her son.

Driven by a desire to break free from tradition, Touda sets her sights on the bright lights of Casablanca, determined to make her own way in a world full of opportunities.

[workingclasshistory]

On this day, 1 June 1940, the Greek anarchist feminist, poet and actor Katerina Gogou was born. As an adult, Gogou opposed the right-wing military dictatorship which took over in 1967, supported workers' struggles, and was frequently subjected to violence by the police. Working as a young actor, especially under the dictatorship, Gogou was only able to perform roles which perpetuated right-wing, capitalist and sexist values, like naïve domestic worker, housewife or love interest. After a popular uprising brought down the dictatorship, she was able to perform radically different roles, including in the 1977 film 'The Heavy Melon', depicting the new urban working class, for which Gogou one the best actress award at the Thessaloniki Film Festival. In the 1970s and 80s Gogou was an active supporter of the burgeoning LGBT+ movement, much of it led by trans and gender nonconforming people. Much of her poetry spoke of the lives of rebels, sex workers and residents of Athens' Exarcheia district, which remains a radical enclave today. Gogou died by suicide in 1993, and thousands of people attended her funeral. After her death, one of her unpublished poems was discovered, which began: "Don’t you stop me. I am dreaming. We lived centuries of injustice bent over. Centuries of loneliness. Now don’t. Don’t you stop me. Now and here, for ever and everywhere. I am dreaming freedom." More information, sources and map: https://stories.workingclasshistory.com/article/8092/katerina-gogou-born https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=636505691855983&set=a.602588028581083&type=3

[schlock-luster-video]

On September 28, 2012, Myra Breckinridge was screened at the Athens Film Festival.

[southeastasianists]

Imelda Marcos envisioned Manila as the cultural center of Asia. Fresh from a successful staging of the 1974 Miss Universe Pageant, where a specially built theater was completed in just 77 days, she wanted a film center that would rival the famed Cannes Film Festival of France.

Employing a celebrated architect of that time Froilan Hong, a building inspired by the Parthenon in Athens was to be constructed in the Cultural Center of the Philippines complex in Pasay City. UNESCO was even consulted for the structural designs of the auditoria and the archives. With three months to spare before the scheduled film festival, the deadline was tight. To make it work, some 4,000 workers were employed to work in three shifts across 24 hours. The lobby was finished in 72 hours by 1,000 workers—a job that was supposed to entail six weeks.

The frenetic pace of construction didn't allow for proper precautions. On November 17, 1981, at around 3 a.m., scaffolding collapsed and workers were trapped in the quick-drying cement. Immediately, a blanket security and a media blackout were imposed for fear of creating a scandal. No rescuers and ambulances were allowed until an official statement was prepared. Rescuers were only allowed after nine hours. Of course, by then it was too late. At that point, 168 workers had died or were buried in the cement. 

Two months later, the first Manila International Film Festival took place from January 18 to 29, 1982.

After an earthquake in 1990, the building was abandoned because of structural damage. It was rehabilitated and leased out to the private sector, but after it caught fire in 2013 it was abandoned once again.

[kaliarda]

[immemorymag]

Alexandra Riba is a photographer and cinematographer, born in Thessaloniki, Greece (1997). She is a graduate of the School of Film Studies of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki. She has also studied contemporary photography at the Stereosis School of Photography in Thessaloniki. Her first solo exhibition, "Between Cities and Skies" was included in the Thessaloniki PhotoBiennale 2023. She has also exhibited her photographs in important art spaces in Greece and abroad. As a cinematographer, she collaborated with director Nikos Kolioukos on the short film "The Chaos She Left Behind", which was part of the official selection at the Festival de Cannes 2024 and winner of the 2nd prize La Cinef Ex-Aequo. She also worked with Syllas Tzoumerkas on the short film "My Mother is a Saint". This film was selected for the Locarno Film Festival 2023 - Pardi di Domani. In theatre, she has worked in productions of the Athens Epidaurus Festival, Onassis Stegi Foundation, and the National Theatre of Northern Greece. She is one of the Sarajevo talents for the 2024 Sarajevo Film Festival.