by Aggelos Skordas
Greece’s Central Archaeological Council (KAS) has finally given the green light for a scene from the BBC/AMC co-production of John Le Carre’s “Little Drummer Girl,” a new TV adaptation to be shot at the 2,500-year-old Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounio, near Athens. A few days ago KAS denied permission to film in the iconic temple, arguing that filming would mean the site would remain closed for visitors for too long as well as that the crew would be rather populous.
The council’s denial sparked the fury of opposition MPs but even members of the SYRIZA – Independent Greeks (ANEL) coalition government, including Culture Minister Lydia Koniordou. As KAS critics said its denial was preventing Greece’s international promotion and worldwide projection of its cultural heritage. The new production will be directed by the renowned filmmaker Park Chan-wook (among others director of the iconic “Old Boy,” “The Handmaiden,” “Stoker” etc.), while Greek production company Faliro House of Christos V. Konstantakopoulos will also cooperate with BBC. The miniseries, starring Florence Pugh and Alexander Skarsgard, is based on a spy novel by John le Carre and follows the young actress holidaying in Greece and the Israeli agent who recruits her for her mission.
According to KAS, the film crew can shoot at the temple from 7.00 am to 1.00 pm on April 12. Shooting at the Temple of Poseidon was a personal choice of the Korean director.
Besides, Digital Policy, Technologies and Media Minister Nikos Pappas announced that 75 million euros have been set aside to support productions in various locations in Greece. As he promised, filming would be approved no more than 45 days after the request was made in what is seen as an attempt to make Greece a top destination for filmmakers.
