The Melbourne Gala Opening of the 2022 Greek Film Festival held last Thursday at the historic Astor Theatre was nothing short of a cinematic treat as audiences were treated to the award-winning biopic ‘Eftihia’ by Angelos Frantzis.
The 700 plus Astor Theatre cinephiles took home a gift bag full of goodies and were entertained by Melbourne band Anagennisi playing the famed Greek lyricists’ songs. Whilst over at Palace Cinema Como, a further two sold out sessions were also moved by the powerful opening feature.
Joining everyone at the Opening Gala was Consul General of Greece to Melbourne Mr. Emmaunel Kakavelakis who addressed the crowd after Film Festival Chair Leonidas Vlahakis welcomed everyone into the cinema. Mr. Vlahakis took the time to introduce the festival’s exciting program of 13 features and four documentaries as well as extend a sincere thanks to The Festival’s Major Sponsors Bendigo Bank, The Victorian Government, Procal Daries, Oasis Coffee, The Greek Quarter, The Greek Film Centre and Joannidis Funerals.
Mr. Bill Papastergiadis, President of The Greek Community of Melbourne expressed how pleased he was with the evening’s atmosphere stating, “to see the community come together to enjoy the Greek Festival, after a trying two years, reiterates how important these types of cultural events are to Melbourne’s Greek-Australians.” He further mentioned grateful the Festival is to have such supportive guests and sponsors in particular its long-term presenting partner the Bendigo Bank.
Fellow GCM Board member Jeanna Vithoulkas introduced the multi award-winning film, highlighting how important it was that this film spoke of a pioneering, strong woman. Dr. Jim Bossinakis Co-Chair of the Greek Film Festival said “as soon as I saw ‘Eftihia’ when it first premiered, I knew that this was a movie that our community in Melbourne would take to.” The audience seemed to agree, with many moved by the powerful storytelling and the instant recognition of the oh-so-many well-known popular songs.
The 2022 Greek Film Festival continues in Melbourne until the 30th of October.
Tickets are selling fast and extra screens and sessions are being added.
Programs and Tickets are available via www.greekfilmfestival.com.au/
