What not to miss at the Greek Film Festival 2018

Posted on 22 November, 2018

This weekend’s Greek Film Festival is not only a celebration of Greek cinema, but also Greek food, wine and music.

Presented by Molonglo Group and supported by the Hellenic Club of Canberra and Podilato Restaurant, the Greek Film Festival is happening over 23-25 November in the NewActon precinct. But there’s a lot more than just great film on offer.

The weekend kicks off with a festive Opening Night Gala on Friday night where attendees will be treated to the Canberra premiere of Smuggling Hendrix, an acclaimed and uplifting comedy-drama. After the film, head next door to Makeshift for the after party, where there will be entertainment courtesy of the Canberra Hellenic Dancers, live Greek music and food by European bistro Podilato. Get your tickets here.

Cellar Door

Then, on Saturday 24 November, be transported to the Aegean with a special edition of NewActon’s Cellar Door. Taking place each Saturday on the Nishi Grand Stair (downstairs in Ovolo Nishi), this wine and produce market will have a special focus on Greek food and wine for one day only. From 3-6 pm, sample and purchase Greek wine, spirits, olive oil, breads and more. For the full experience, grab a tasting glass and browse the stalls at your leisure while listening to Greek records and live bouzouki.

The Greek Film Festival 2017. Credit: Martin Ollman.

Still can’t get enough? Head back to Makeshift that evening from 6.30 pm for a Greek feast of mezze, shared plates and sweet treats. Presented by Podilato, there will be live Greek music and dinner will be followed by a screening of gripping historical drama, The Last Note at Palace Electric. Book in for dinner and drama here.

As for standalone films, here’s what not to miss across the weekend.

POLYXENI

Inspired by true events, Polyxeni is an epic and engrossing exploration of trust, tragedy and love, set in 1970’s Istanbul. The film features breathtaking cinematography and an evocative score.

Saturday 24 November, 2 pm | Palace Electric

THE BACHELOR 2

A uniquely Hellenic take on The Hangover franchise, The Bachelor 2 reunites the hilarious cast of the 2016 original for another night of madness and mayhem—this time in Crete.

Saturday 24 November at 4.40 pm | Palace Electric

LOAFING AND CAMOUFLAGE

This acclaimed semi-autobiographical feature film is writer-director Nikos Perakis’ satirical Catch 22-esque take on his time in Greek military service. Released in 1984, Loafing and Camouflage has fast become a Greek cult classic.

Sunday 25 November at 2 pm | Palace Electric

the essentials

What: The 2018 Greek Film Festival
When: 23-25 November
Where: Palace Electric, inside the Nishi Building, Phillip Law Street, NewActon
Tickets: greekfilmfestival.com.au/films/canberra

What: Greek Cellar Door
When: Saturday 24 November from 3-6 pm
Where: Nishi Grand Stair, Phillip Law Street, NewActon
Cost: Free entry / $12 tasting glass
More information: Via Facebook

Feature image: Martin Ollman