December 29, 2025
By GCT Team
Released on Christmas Day 2025, Yannis Smaragdis’ historical epic Kapodistrias has become a cultural phenomenon in Greece, packing cinemas nationwide despite facing fierce criticism, funding denials, and accusations of excessive patriotism.
The film chronicles the extraordinary life of Ioannis Kapodistrias (1776–1831), Greece’s first Governor after independence from the Ottoman Empire. Portrayed with striking resemblance by Antonis Myriagos, Kapodistrias is depicted as a visionary diplomat, devout Christian, and selfless leader who built the foundations of the modern Greek state—only to be assassinated in Nafplio on September 27, 1831, by Konstantinos and Georgios Mavromichalis, in a plot fueled by local rivalries, foreign interference, and internal betrayal.
Smaragdis’ deeply emotional and spiritually infused narrative highlights Kapodistrias’ diplomatic triumphs in Europe, his platonic yet tender relationship with Roxandra Stourdza, his profound faith, and his ultimate sacrifice. The director overcame significant obstacles, including state funding cuts and reported hostility, to bring this “hagiographic” tribute to the screen.
The world premiere took place on November 29, 2025, at New York’s Museum of the Moving Image, attended by Smaragdis, descendant Natalia Kapodistria, and composer Minos Matsas. The following day, the World Council of Cretans honored the director. Smaragdis emphasized the Greek diaspora’s role in preserving Hellenism, stating that unity could once again allow Greeks to “achieve greatness.”
Historical Context: The Assassination That Changed Greece
Kapodistrias’ murder marked a tragic turning point. As he attended church in Nafplio, the Mavromichalis brothers ambushed him—one shooting him in the head, the other stabbing him. Revolutionary hero Theodoros Kolokotronis wept upon hearing the news and rushed to restore order, famously using a parable about donkeys to urge calm amid rising chaos. The ensuing anarchy paved the way for the Great Powers to impose absolute monarchy under King Otto.
Reception and Debate
Audience response has been overwhelmingly positive, with sold-out screenings and praise for its sincerity, Myriagos’ captivating performance, and its timely reminder of duty and faith in contemporary Greek cinema.
Critics, however, are divided: some hail it as a “long-overdue act of justice,” while others decry it as overly hagiographic, melodramatic, and constrained by budget limitations in production values. Detractors argue it compresses history, omits key events like the Battle of Petra, and devotes excessive time to romantic elements.
The controversy echoes pre-release tensions, with Smaragdis facing funding blocks and accusations of promoting “ethno-nihilism” from opponents uncomfortable with its unapologetic patriotism.
Overall Verdict
Despite imperfections, Kapodistrias stands as an honest, moving tribute to one of Greece’s greatest yet often misunderstood figures—a man whose moral integrity cost him his life. In Smaragdis’ words, it asks: “Give me the homeland I long for.”
A must-watch for anyone proud of Greek history and seeking inspiration from its heroes.
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