Greece, with its breathtaking landscapes, ancient history and vibrant culture, has long been a muse for filmmakers from around the world.
Here are eight films that have helped put Greece on the world cinematic map! Greece’s iconic locations have served as the backdrop for numerous movies that have captivated audiences and showcased the country’s timeless beauty.
The Top 8 movies that make you want to visit Greece:
Top 8: “Captain Corelli’s Mandolin” (2001)
Plot of “Captain Corelli’s Mandolin”
Set during World War II, this romantic drama tells the story of Captain Antonio Corelli (Nicolas Cage), an Italian officer stationed on the Greek island of Kefalonia during the Axis occupation. Corelli falls in love with Pelagia (Penélope Cruz), the fiancée of a local man fighting in the resistance. As war ravages the island and their lives, the couple’s forbidden love story unfolds amidst themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the human cost of conflict.
Filming locations of “Captain Corelli’s Mandolin”
The filming locations of Captain Corelli’s Mandolin are centered on the stunning Greek island of Kefalonia, which serves as the main backdrop for this World War II romance. The island’s natural beauty and traditional charm play a significant role in the movie’s visual appeal.
Sami – The picturesque town of Sami was transformed into the fictional village of Pelagia. Its harbor and surrounding areas, featuring colorful houses and traditional architecture, were prominently featured in the film.
Antisamos Beach – One of Kefalonia’s most famous beaches, Antisamos Beach provided the setting for many pivotal scenes. Its turquoise waters, surrounded by lush green hills, offered a breathtaking backdrop for the love story.
Myrtos Beach – This iconic beach, known for its dazzling white pebbles and vivid blue waters, was used in aerial shots, showcasing the island’s extraordinary natural beauty.
Old Buildings and Ruins – Several scenes were filmed in abandoned villages and ruins on the island, reflecting the wartime setting and historical context of the story.
Argostoli – Kefalonia’s capital, Argostoli, was used for a few scenes, including depictions of daily life during the Italian occupation.
These filming locations brought the story of Captain Corelli’s Mandolin to life, offering a cinematic celebration of Kefalonia’s dramatic landscapes and serene beauty. The film also contributed to a surge in tourism to the island, as viewers were captivated by its idyllic scenery.
Top 7: “The Big Blue” (1988)
Plot of “The Big Blue”
This visually captivating film tells the story of Jacques (Jean-Marc Barr) and Enzo (Jean Reno), two freedivers and lifelong rivals, as they compete in a quest for personal and professional glory. Exploring themes of obsession, friendship, and the allure of the sea, the movie is a meditative journey into the depths of the human spirit and the vastness of the ocean.
Filming locations of “The Big Blue”
The filming locations prominently feature the stunning Greek island of Amorgos, whose dramatic landscapes and crystal-clear waters perfectly complement the film’s themes of freedom and connection to the sea.
Panagia Hozoviotissa Monastery – This iconic whitewashed monastery, perched on a cliff overlooking the Aegean Sea, serves as a striking backdrop in the film. Its serene and timeless presence aligns with the movie’s meditative tone.
Agia Anna Beach – One of Amorgos’s most famous beaches, this small bay with its turquoise waters and rocky surroundings is the location of Jacques’ underwater dives. It perfectly captures the ethereal beauty central to the film.
Chora (Amorgos Town) – The traditional main town of Amorgos, with its narrow streets and Cycladic architecture, is briefly featured, adding an authentic Greek atmosphere to the story.
Kalotaritissa Bay – Located on the southern tip of Amorgos, this tranquil bay provides additional scenic backdrops that reflect the island’s untouched natural beauty.
These breathtaking locations on Amorgos enhanced the film’s visual storytelling, immersing audiences in the otherworldly allure of the Aegean Sea. The Big Blue not only celebrated the island’s pristine beauty but also helped make Amorgos a sought-after destination for travelers seeking tranquility and inspiration.
Top 6: “My Life in Ruins” (2009)
Plot of “My Life in Ruins”
In this heartwarming romantic comedy, Georgia (Nia Vardalos) is a disillusioned American tour guide in Greece, frustrated with her life and her quirky tourists. As she leads her group across Greece’s historic landmarks, she begins to rediscover her love for the country’s rich culture and beauty. Along the way, she forms a surprising connection with Poupi (Alexis Georgoulis), her reserved but kind-hearted bus driver. Through humor, self-reflection, and a newfound appreciation for life, Georgia learns to embrace the world around her.
Filming locations of “My Life in Ruins”
The filming locations of My Life in Ruins (2009) beautifully showcase Greece’s rich history and iconic landmarks, bringing its stunning cultural and natural heritage to life. The film’s primary locations include:
The Acropolis, Athens – The film prominently features Greece’s most famous archaeological site, including the Parthenon and the surrounding Acropolis hill. These ancient ruins provide a majestic and timeless backdrop for several scenes, emphasizing Greece’s cultural grandeur.
Plaka, Athens – This historic neighborhood at the foot of the Acropolis is featured in the film, showcasing its picturesque cobblestone streets and lively atmosphere. In the film, people shop here in the typical tourist stores.
Temple of Apollo, Delphi – Set in one of Greece’s most sacred ancient sites, the film takes viewers through the Temple of Apollo and its breathtaking surroundings. The lush hills and ruins capture the mystical beauty of this historic sanctuary.
Ancient Olympia – The site of the ancient Olympic Games is featured in scenes where Georgia (Nia Vardalos) leads her tour group. The ruins, including the Temple of Zeus, highlight Greece’s athletic and cultural legacy.
Epidaurus Theater – The iconic ancient theater of Epidaurus appears in the film, showcasing its incredible acoustics and architectural brilliance while adding depth to the story’s historical journey.
Cape Sounio – The Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion, with its dramatic seaside views, is another notable location. This site’s striking beauty and mythological significance enhance the film’s emotional and visual appeal.
Top 5: “The Two Faces of January” (2014)
Plot of “The Two Faces of January”
This suspenseful thriller, based on Patricia Highsmith’s novel, follows Chester (Viggo Mortensen) and Colette MacFarland (Kirsten Dunst), a wealthy American couple traveling through Greece in 1962. Their lives take a dark turn when they become entangled in a violent crime and enlist the help of Rydal (Oscar Isaac), a young tour guide with questionable motives. As the trio flees across Greece, tensions rise, and their relationships unravel, creating a gripping story of deception, betrayal, and survival.
Filming locations of “The Two Faces of January”
The movie highlight Greece’s stunning historical and natural beauty, capturing its timeless charm.
The Acropolis, Athens – The iconic ancient citadel serves as a striking backdrop in the film’s opening scenes. The Parthenon and its surrounding structures emphasize Greece’s historic grandeur and set the tone for the film’s intrigue.
Plaka, Athens – This historic neighborhood beneath the Acropolis is featured with its narrow streets, neoclassical houses, and vibrant atmosphere. Plaka adds a sense of authenticity and intimacy to the story.
Knossos, Crete – The famous Minoan palace near Heraklion plays a significant role in the film, immersing the characters in Greece’s ancient past. The labyrinthine ruins of Knossos mirror the story’s themes of secrets and deception.
Chania, Crete – The picturesque old town and Venetian harbor of Chania provide a dramatic and atmospheric setting for key scenes. The area’s unique blend of history and beauty complements the film’s suspenseful tone.
Rethymno, Crete – Another charming town on the island of Crete, Rethymno is featured for its well-preserved medieval architecture and coastal scenery, adding depth to the film’s narrative.
Top 4: “Before Midnight” (2013)
Plot of “Before Midnight”
The third installment in Richard Linklater’s Before trilogy finds Jesse (Ethan Hawke) and Celine (Julie Delpy) as a long-term couple navigating the challenges of their relationship while on vacation in Greece. Now parents to twin daughters, the couple grapples with Jesse’s guilt over being far from his son in the U.S. and Celine’s uncertainties about her career. As they spend a rare evening alone, their raw and honest conversations bring to light their fears, frustrations, and enduring love, creating an intimate exploration of long-term relationships.
Filming locations of “Before Midnight”
The filming locations of Before Midnight (2013) are set in the breathtaking Peloponnese region of Greece.
Kardamyli – This charming village in Messinia served as the central filming location. Its traditional stone houses, narrow streets, and scenic coastal views provided an intimate and picturesque backdrop for much of the story.
Patrick Leigh Fermor House – The historic home of the British author in Kardamyli was used for the memorable dinner party scene. The house, surrounded by olive groves and overlooking the sea, added a sense of timeless elegance to the film.
Messinian Countryside – The couple’s conversations while driving through the Peloponnese showcase the region’s lush olive groves, winding roads, and tranquil beauty, emphasizing the reflective tone of the movie.
Costa Navarino Resort – The luxurious resort provided the setting for some interior scenes, blending modern comfort with the natural beauty of the surrounding area.
Pylos and Surrounding Coastline – The pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters near Pylos are glimpsed in several scenes, capturing the region’s unspoiled charm.
These locations highlight the Peloponnese’s idyllic landscapes, complementing the film’s themes of love, time, and personal reflection. The understated beauty of Greece becomes an integral part of the narrative, immersing viewers in its timeless allure.
Top 3: “Mamma Mia!” (2008)
Plot of “Mamma Mia”
This joyous musical, set to the tunes of ABBA, follows Sophie (Amanda Seyfried), a bride-to-be who secretly invites three men to her wedding, hoping to discover which one is her father. The story unfolds on a dreamy Greek island as romance, family secrets, and laughter take center stage. With its uplifting energy and heartfelt moments, the film became a global sensation, celebrating love, family, and Greece’s irresistible charm.
Filming locations of “Mamma Mia”
The filming locations of Mamma Mia! (2008) primarily showcase the stunning beauty of Greece’s Sporades islands, creating the idyllic setting that captivated audiences worldwide.
Agios Ioannis Chapel (Skopelos Island) – This picturesque hilltop chapel became one of the most iconic locations in the film. It’s the setting for Sophie’s wedding and features breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea.
Kastani Beach (Skopelos Island) – Known for its turquoise waters and soft sand, this beach served as the backdrop for many of the movie’s joyful musical scenes, including the “Does Your Mother Know” sequence.
Glisteri Beach (Skopelos Island) – Another scenic beach used in the film, offering a quieter, secluded atmosphere.
Skiathos Island Port – The film begins with Sophie sending out wedding invitations, with scenes capturing the charm of Skiathos’s port town. Its cobblestone streets and traditional architecture perfectly set the tone for the story.
Damouchari, Pelion (Mainland Greece) – While most filming took place in the Sporades, some scenes were shot in the small village of Damouchari on the eastern coast of mainland Greece. Its tranquil bay and historic buildings added to the film’s timeless Greek aesthetic.
These locations, with their whitewashed buildings, lush greenery, and sparkling waters, became synonymous with the dreamlike allure of Greece, sparking a wave of tourism to the featured islands.
Top 2: “Never on Sunday” (1960)
Plot of “Never on Sunday”
This classic comedy-drama follows Ilya (Melina Mercouri), a free-spirited woman living in Piraeus, and Homer (Jules Dassin), an American scholar determined to “educate” her about Greek culture. Their humorous and heartfelt interactions explore themes of individuality, freedom, and the joy of life, offering a vibrant portrayal of post-war Greece.
Filming locations of “Never of Sunday”
The filming locations of Never on Sunday are centered around Piraeus, the historic port city near Athens. These locations beautifully capture the vibrant atmosphere of Greece during the post-war era, showcasing its authentic charm and culture.
Piraeus Port – Much of the film takes place around this bustling port, reflecting the lively seafaring culture and the everyday life of the local community. The waterfront and docked ships serve as a picturesque backdrop throughout the movie.
Streets and Markets of Piraeus – The film highlights the colorful streets and markets of Piraeus, portraying the heart of Greek urban life with its vibrant energy and engaging characters.
Seaside Taverns – Several iconic scenes are set in local taverns near the port, where music, dancing, and camaraderie bring the culture of Piraeus to life.
By staying true to its Piraeus setting, Never on Sunday offers an authentic and endearing portrayal of Greek life, making the city itself an essential character in the film’s story.
Top 1: “Zorba the Greek” (1964)
Plot of “Zorba the Greek”
Based on Nikos Kazantzakis’ novel, this iconic film follows the unlikely friendship between Basil (Alan Bates), a reserved English writer, and Zorba (Anthony Quinn), a boisterous Greek villager. Together, they navigate the challenges of life in a small Cretan village, culminating in the unforgettable Sirtaki dance that epitomizes resilience, joy, and the Greek spirit.
Filming locations of “Zorba the Greek”
The filming locations of Zorba the Greek (1964) are primarily on the island of Crete, which plays a central role in capturing the film’s authentic Greek spirit. Here are the key locations:
Stavros Beach – The iconic scene where Zorba (Anthony Quinn) and Basil (Alan Bates) perform the famous Sirtaki dance was filmed on this picturesque beach, located in the village of Stavros on the Akrotiri peninsula. The sandy beach and dramatic mountain backdrop make it one of the most memorable locations in the film.
Akrotiri Peninsula – Various scenes were shot around this rugged and scenic area, highlighting Crete’s unspoiled natural beauty and traditional villages.
Chania Region – The town of Chania and its surrounding villages served as a base for many scenes, providing a glimpse of Cretan life and architecture.
Apokoronas Villages – Small, authentic villages in this area, including Kokkino Chorio, were used to depict the film’s rural setting, adding depth and realism to the story.
Greece has always been a popular theme
From golden beaches to ancient ruins, Greece has been a treasure trove of inspiration for filmmakers. These movies not only celebrated the beauty of the Greek land but also introduced its culture and spirit to audiences around the globe, cementing Greece’s place in cinematic history.
Source: Athens24.com
