Kefalonia is an island that many people know for its impressive beaches and natural beauty. What perhaps not everyone knows is that several films - both international and Greek - have chosen Kefalonia as a backdrop, highlighting landscapes, villages and people. The island has hosted famous international productions, as well as films by Kefalonian filmmakers, who through their stories have highlighted the particular natural beauty and cultural heritage of the place. From "Captain Corelli's Mandolin" to the films of Vassilis Kekatos, Kefalonia continues to captivate the cinematographic lens. This article presents the most characteristic films shot on the island, the reasons why it was chosen as a location, and the contribution of locals to its cultural and cinematic identity.
Films shot in Kefalonia
"Captain Corelli's Mandolin" (2001)
Kefalonia, one of the most beautiful islands of the Ionian Sea, became internationally known in 2001 with the release of the film "Captain Corelli's Mandolin". The film adaptation of Louis de Bernières' novel of the same name, directed by John Madden, was not just a love story set against the backdrop of World War II. It was a project that radically changed the image of Kefalonia for international audiences, giving it a place on the world cinematic map.
The premise of the film
The film tells the story of Italian Captain Antonio Corelli (Nicolas Cage), who arrives in the Italian-occupied Kefalonia during World War II. There he meets and falls in love with Pelagia (Penélope Cruz), the daughter of the local doctor (John Hurt), who is engaged to Mandra (Christian Bale), a young fisherman who has joined the resistance. Their love is tested by the circumstances of the war and the tragedy that will ensue after the Italians leave and the Germans arrive.
Why Kefalonia was chosen
The choice of Kefalonia as a filming location was almost inevitable, as the island is the central setting of the story. The authenticity of the landscape, the traditional architecture and the natural beauty of the island perfectly matched the atmosphere of the novel. At the same time, Kefalonia was able to host such a large production, offering comfortable filming facilities and infrastructure for the film crew.
Filming locations
- Chorgota Beach: This pebbly beach was used for romantic scenes between Corelli and Pelagia.
- Sami: The port of Sami was transformed into a war scene, representing the occupied area of the time.
- Myrtos Beach: Used for dramatic battle scenes, providing an impressive background.
The impact of the film in Kefalonia
The film was a turning point for tourism in Kefalonia. After its release, visitors to the island increased rapidly, with many of them seeking out the places where the most characteristic scenes were filmed. Captain Corelli's Mandolin introduced the public to the beaches, picturesque villages and landscapes of Kefalonia, which had previously received little international attention.
At the same time, many businesses began to capitalise on the film's fame, offering guided tours of the filming locations, as well as souvenirs and tours inspired by the film.
However, the film also provoked reactions, particularly from historians and local residents, as the depiction of events was not always considered accurate. The massacre of Italian soldiers by the Germans was presented with cinematic exaggeration, while there were also disagreements about the film's portrayal of Greek culture.
The true story behind the film
"Captain Corelli's Mandolin" is based on real events that took place in Kefalonia during the Italian occupation. According to Pagenews.gr, a touching love story unfolded between a Greek woman, Elli Foka, and an Italian telegraph operator, Walter Gorno. This true love story is believed to have inspired the novel and, by extension, the film.
Kefalonia after the film
More than twenty years after the release of the film, Kefalonia continues to benefit from its reputation. The filming locations remain popular tourist attractions, and the film is often the subject of cultural events on the island. Although the cinematic impact has not been maintained with the same intensity over time, the film has left an indelible mark on local society and the history of Kefalonia.
"The Key to Happiness" (1953)
The first Greek film shot in Kefalonia was "The Key of Happiness", directed by Pavlina Petovato. The film was screened during the 1952-1953 season and is a valuable document of the pre-earthquake Kefalonia.
The Case of the Film
The story evolves around human relationships, social prejudices and the personal struggles of the characters, in a narrative style that combines the realistic with the dramatic element. Kefalonia serves not only as a background, but also as a main narrative axis.
Shooting locations
- Argostoli: It is presented through scenes of everyday life and urban life.
- Poros and Livatho: Rural and coastal landscapes of the island are used to highlight the local life and culture of the time.
Participation of Cephalonites
Many islanders participated in the film as actors and support staff, while characteristics of Kefalonian folklore and traditions are recorded.
Impact on Kefalonia
The film has significant historical and cultural value, as it preserves the image of the island before the devastating earthquakes of 1953. It is a living record of the era and a rare cinematic depiction of life in Kefalonia in the 1950s.
He records scenes from Poros, Leivatho, Argostoli and other parts of the island, highlighting the landscapes, customs and the local dialect of the time. Great Greek actors such as Titus Vandis and Notis Pergialis took part in the production, while many Kefalonians took part in the production. The film has significant historical and cultural value, as it preserves the image of the island before the devastating earthquakes of 1953.
The Kefalonian Creators who showed off the Island
Vassilis Kekatos and Kefalonia in his Cinematic Optics
The award-winning director Vassilis Kekatos has placed Kefalonia at the centre of his films, turning the island into a protagonist. His short films have won international awards and showcase the unique atmosphere of the island through contemporary stories.
His Films in Kefalonia
"Anadromos" (2015)
Kekatos' first short film is a deeply personal and emotional story. It follows a young man returning to Kefalonia for his father's funeral. The island, with its wild and melancholic landscapes, acts as a reflection of his inner turmoil. Kefalonian actors participated in the film, contributing to the authenticity of the story.
Shooting locations
The film was shot in Kefalonia, mainly in areas around Metaxata and Livatho. The light, the changing skies and the characteristics of the Kefalonian countryside act as expressive means of the hero's inner world.
Participation of Cephalonites
The roles are performed by amateur actors, the majority of whom are from Kefalonia. This choice gives authenticity to the narrative and strengthens the connection of the viewer with the reality of the place.
Impact and Discrimination
"Anadromos" was the beginning of Kekatos' career. Although it did not win any major awards, it was screened at Greek festivals and made a positive impression for its simple, mature direction and its intensely emotional charge. It is considered the first step of a filmmaker who was destined to represent Cephalonia on the international film scene.
"The Silence of the Fish When They Die" (2018)
Vassilis Kekatos' second short film is a deeply allegorical story, with elements of poetic realism. The hero, a lonely street fishmonger, tries to sell his fish to a community that seems indifferent. The script deals with themes of loneliness, marginalisation and human communication through a sense of silence - a silence that is social, existential and almost metaphysical.
Shooting locations
The film was shot entirely in Kefalonia, mainly in the area of Lixouri. The locations chosen include rocky beaches, deserted rural roads and villages, reinforcing the sense of isolation and silence that pervades the film. The landscape functions almost as a character in its own right, enhancing the emotional and poetic charge of the narrative.
Participation of Cephalonites
Many Kefalonians participated in the production - either as actors or extras. Particularly important was the contribution of the Theatrical Group of Lixouri, whose members actively supported the filming. The authenticity of the faces and accents enhanced the naturalness of the film.
Impact and Discrimination
The film was screened at major festivals, such as the Locarno International Film Festival, and contributed decisively to the fame of Vassilis Kekatos abroad. It is a typical example of his personal style and is considered one of the most important contemporary short films made in Kefalonia. Their contribution adds authenticity and locality to the work. "Silence of the Fish When They Die" was screened at the Locarno Film Festival and helped establish Kekatos as one of the most promising voices of the new generation of Greek cinema, both in leading roles and as extras, giving a local character to the story.
Kefalonia, with its unique natural beauty and its special light, has become the setting for great film productions. From Hollywood to contemporary Greek creations, the island continues to inspire artists and attract the interest of the film world. Kefalonian filmmakers, such as Vassilis Kekatos, contribute significantly to the promotion of their island, strengthening the link between Kefalonia and the art of cinema. By highlighting local talents and the cinematographic exploitation of the island, Kefalonia can continue to inspire and host new, important productions.
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