The Pammessinian Brotherhood “Papaflessas” are hosting a free screening of 2022 documentary My Grandfather Papaflessas on Sunday March 17, to coincide with the annual celebration of Greek Independence Day.
The film tells the story of one of the most influential figures during the Greek War of Independence, Archimandrite Grigorios Dimitrios Dikaios-Flessas, popularly known as Papaflessas.
Directed and written by his great granddaughter Kleoni Flessa, it follows in his footsteps in Greece, Turkey, Romania and Ukraine, where he travelled to Constantinople in the age of Enlightenment and romanticism, and became a member of the revolutionary organisation “Filiki Eteria” (Society of Friends), taking on the task of inciting his compatriots against the Ottoman Empire.
It is said to be a hybrid documentary, offering unique visuals, with the historical events depicted in animation by Babis Alexiadis.
Photography was handled by Katerina Maragoudakis, while also featuring original jazz music written by Arion Gyftakis.
The 70-minute film received the Photography Award at the 16th Chalkida Documentary Festival in 2022.
At the beginning of the screening, which will be in Greek with English subtitles, the Consul General of Greece in Melbourne Emmanuel Kakavelakis will speak and offer his insights into Papaflessas and his contribution to Greek Independence.
Named after him, the Pammessinian Brotherhood honour the freedom fighter and are dedicated to upholding his legacy.
When: Sunday March 17, 5pm
Where: Cnr of Kalamata Lane and Gooch Street, Thornbury Vic 3071
RSVP: At the Venue Door Bookings website.
