The 29^th Greek Film Festival Kicks Off in Style

The 29^th Greek Film Festival Kicks Off in Style

The 29th Greek Film Festival, presented by the Greek Community of Melbourne (GCM), launched today at the iconic Astor Theatre with the highly anticipated comedy Hear Who’s Talking, directed by Thodoris Niarchos and starring Meletis Ilias. The event marks the beginning of two weeks celebrating Greek cinema across Melbourne, with screenings at Palace Cinema Como, Palace Cinemas Pentridge, and Palace Balwyn Cinema.

In what has become an annual landmark in Melbourne’s Greek community cultural calendar, the Astor Theatre was filled with red carpet-walking festivalgoers who soaked up the vibrant atmosphere. Attendees received festival tote bags filled with sponsor goodies and gifts before sitting down to enjoy the highly regarded comedy.

Hear Who’s Talking set the perfect tone for the festival, offering a heartwarming take on listening to our inner voice and dedicating quality time to loved ones. Niarchos’ signature comedic style had the audience in stitches while also delivering a thoughtful message that resonated deeply with viewers.

Leonidas Vlahakis, Chair of the Greek Community’s Cultural Committee, expressed his excitement for this year’s festival, acknowledging its growing significance as a major cultural event in Melbourne: "The Greek Film Festival goes from strength to strength, and I’m thrilled to see how much it resonates with the broader community. I am excited about the opportunity to showcase the talents of Greek filmmakers, both emerging and established, who continue to push boundaries and explore new dimensions of storytelling. It’s an honour to see so many of you here tonight as we kick off what promises to be an unforgettable festival. I invite you all to immerse yourselves in these films, engage with the stories, and celebrate this wonderful journey through Greek cinema."

Following the screening, a lively post-film reception allowed attendees to mingle with filmmakers, special guests, and local media, engaging in spirited discussions about the film and the exciting lineup ahead.

A standout moment of the night was the giveaway of a return flight to Greece, generously offered by Scoot.

Running until October 27, the 29th Greek Film Festival promises an exceptional program of films, including world premieres and special in-person Q&A sessions with visiting filmmakers. For more details, visit: https://greekfilmfestival.com.au/melbourne/films.

PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY

PROCAL, OASIS, Joannides Funerals, FIX, PALACE CINEMAS

Festival Partners

Hellenic Wines and Spirits, Bahari I Gringlish, PRONIA, Vanilla, SCOOT, GREEK QUARTER, Fronditha Care Foundation , AHEPA, Thematikos,Bravo, SKY EXPRESS, Kwikkopy, Carroten, Sue Sensi, , FindmyGreececom, Accountancy Group , VICTAC FINANCE , Pay plus HR , Themida Legal

Media Sponsors

ANT1 PACIFIC, NEOS KOSMOS, THE GREEK HERALD, TA NEA I 3XY, SBS GREEK, RYTHMOS, 3ZZZ, PAROIKIAKI TILEORASI, Greek City Times,