The highly anticipated 2023 Greek Film Festival is set to enthrall audiences in Melbourne and Sydney from October 19 to 29. With an enticing lineup of new releases and timeless classics from Greek cinema, this event promises to deliver an unforgettable cinematic experience.

October 19, the festival opens with the award-winning feature film “Behind the Haystacks,” directed by Asimina Proedrou. Praised by Screen International as an “intense psychological study of murky morality,” the film delves into the complexities of the 2015 refugee crisis in Greece, as seen through the eyes of three morally questionable family members.

The film includes the brilliant ensemble of Stathis Stamatopoulos, Eleni Ouzounidou, Evgenia Lavda, and Paschalis Tsarouhas, this cinematic gem promises an unforgettable experience.

The program features a compelling lineup of award-winning features and eye-opening documentaries that shed light on various aspects of Greek culture and society. Additionally, a special tribute will be paid to the late Eirini Pappa, the esteemed actor who graced the silver screen in over 70 films during her illustrious career spanning more than five decades.

Pappa’s iconic roles in acclaimed films such as “The Guns of Navarone,” “Zorba the Greek,” and “Z” have earned her international recognition and a place in cinema history. Her contribution to Greek cinema will be celebrated and remembered with fondness.

The 2023 Greek Film Festival is presented by the Greek Community of Melbourne and the Greek Orthodox Community of NSW, in collaboration with the Palace Cinemas group. It is an opportunity for both Greek and non-Greek audiences to appreciate the diverse storytelling traditions of Greek cinema.

The Opening Night of the festival will be held simultaneously at two iconic venues in Melbourne – “The Astor Theatre” and “Palace Cinema Como” – and at “Palace Norton Street” in Leichhardt, Sydney.

Don’t miss this cinematic journey into Greek film culture. Tickets for the Opening Night and other screenings at www.greekfilmfestival.com.au