Press
Press
2025 Press Releases
Hellenic Film Society Presents
Film Shorts by Greek-American Filmmakers
Sunday, May 18 at 6:30pm at the Museum of the Moving Image
Astoria, NY — May 8, 2025 – The Hellenic Film Society (HFS) proudly presents eight of the best short films from the scores of submissions received for the first It’s Greek to Me Short Film Program. The shorts, all created by Greek-American filmmakers, include a variety of genres: drama, comedy, animation, sci-fi, and documentary. A live Q&A session with the directors will follow the screening, to be presented at the Museum of the Moving Image (MoMI) in Astoria, NY, on Sunday, May 18 at 6:30pm. The presentation is part of the Society’s monthly Greek film series at MoMI. Films that are in Greek have English subtitles.
“When we announced an open call for short films by Greek-American directors and producers, we didn’t know what to expect,” said Maria C. Miles, Hellenic Film Society president. “We were thrilled at the number of submissions we received and very impressed by the quality of the films. With so many terrific films submitted, it was difficult for our judges to narrow the selections down to eight, but that’s a good problem to have. We are in awe of all the wonderful creators in our Greek-American community and hope to make this an annual event.”
Following is a list of the films that will be presented:
AGAPI, directed by Julia Speropoulos (10 minutes)
CICADA, directed by Matteo Moretti (13 minutes)
MAN OVER AEGEAN, directed by Alexander Pagonis (15 minutes)
A PICKLE AND A COKE, directed by Alex Kokenis (14 min)
REAL TALK, directed by Artemis Shaw (15 min)
THE SONG OF THE WITCH, directed by Minos Papas (13 minutes)
THE T3ST, directed by Alexandros Tsilifonis (11 minutes)
WE REGRET TO INFORM YOU, produced by Zina Wilde (14 minutes)
For further information, to view a sizzle reel of the film, or to purchase tickets, please visit www.hellenicfilmusa.org and follow on Facebook and Instagram. The Museum of the Moving Image, 36-01 35th Avenue in Astoria, NY, is conveniently located near public transportation.
About the Hellenic Film Society
The Hellenic Film Society is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to promoting Greek cinema and sharing the richness of Greek films with American audiences. Based in Astoria, NY, HFS presents an array of feature films, documentaries, and shorts by Greek filmmakers and those of Greek descent, as well as works that highlight the cultures of Greece and Cyprus.
HFS is known for its annual New York Greek Film Expo, a Greek film festival for all New Yorkers, and its ongoing Always on Sunday monthly film series, presented in collaboration with the prestigious Museum of the Moving Image. Additionally, the organization partners with other prominent film festivals across the United States, including the Chicago Greek Film Expo, the South Florida Greek Film Festival, and the Atlanta Greek Film Expo.
The Kallinikeion Foundation and the Stavros Niarchos Foundation (SNF) are the lead supporters of the Hellenic Film Society. Additional support is provided by Microsoft, Greek National Tourism Organization, Axia Spirit, the New York City Council, Queens Borough President Donovan Richards, and Antenna Satellite TV.
For more information, to volunteer, or to support our mission, visit www.hellenicfilmsociety.org.
Media Relations:
Nancy Nicolelis
Marketing Communications
nancy.nicolelis.hfs@gmail.com
347-934-9497
 |
| The Hellenic Film Society presents eight of the best short films from the scores of submissions received for the first It’s Greek to Me Short Film Program. The shorts, all created by Greek-American filmmakers, include a variety of genres: drama, comedy, animation, sci-fi, and documentary. A live Q&A session with the directors will follow the screening, which will be presented at the Museum of the Moving Image (MoMI) in Astoria, NY, on Sunday, May 18 at 6:30pm. For further information and tickets, visit www.hellenicfilmsociety.org. |
Hellenic Film Society Presents The Last Taxi Driver;
Psychological Thriller Stars Klelia Andriolatou
Sunday, April 27 at the Museum of the Moving Image
Astoria, NY — April 15, 2025 – The Hellenic Film Society (HFS) will present The Last Taxi Driver on Sunday, April 27 at 3pm as part of its Always on Sunday monthly Greek film series at the Museum of the Moving Image (MoMI) in Astoria. Written and directed by Stergios Paschos, the psychological thriller stars Kostas Koronaios, and Klelia Andriolatou, known to American audiences for her starring role in the hit Netflix series Maestro in Blue.
In this erotically-charged psychological thriller, a middle-aged cab driver grappling with his thwarted ambitions, suddenly finds his life upended when he witnesses the suicide of one of his customers. Convinced that he needs a way out of his dead-end life, he becomes obsessed with a beautiful young woman. Kostas Koronaios, who plays the title role, received the Best Actor award at the Thessaloniki Film Festival and the award for Best Performance in a Feature Film at the New York Greek Film Expo. The film received five 2024 Hellenic Film Academy Award nominations and won Best Picture honors from the Greek Association of Film Critics.
The film, in Greek with English subtitles, is recommended for mature audiences only.
“The screenplay written by Paschos and the performances by Kostas Koronaios and Klelia Andriolatou keep us at the edge of our seats and waiting in anticipation to see what happens next,” says Hellenic Film Society president Maria Miles.
For further information, to view the film trailer, or to purchase tickets, please visit www.hellenicfilmusa.org and follow on Facebook and Instagram. The Museum of the Moving Image, 36-01 35th Avenue in Astoria, is conveniently located near public transportation.
About the Hellenic Film Society
The Hellenic Film Society is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to promoting Greek cinema and sharing the richness of Greek films with American audiences. Based in Astoria, NY, HFS presents an array of feature films, documentaries, and shorts by Greek filmmakers and those of Greek descent, as well as works that highlight the cultures of Greece and Cyprus.
HFS is known for its annual New York Greek Film Expo, a Greek film festival for all New Yorkers, and its ongoing Always on Sunday monthly film series, presented in collaboration with the prestigious Museum of the Moving Image. Additionally, the organization partners with other prominent film festivals across the United States, including the Chicago Greek Film Expo, the South Florida Greek Film Festival, and the Atlanta Greek Film Expo.
The Kallinikeion Foundation and the Stavros Niarchos Foundation (SNF) are the lead supporters of the Hellenic Film Society. Additional support is provided by Microsoft, Greek National Tourism Organization, Axia Spirit, the New York City Council, Queens Borough President Donovan Richards, and Antenna Satellite TV.
For more information, to volunteer, or to support our mission, visit www.hellenicfilmsociety.org.
Media Relations:
Nancy Nicolelis
Marketing Communications
nancy.nicolelis.hfs@gmail.com
347-934-9497
 |
| The Hellenic Film Society presents The Last Taxi Driver, on Sunday, April 27 at the Museum of the Moving Image in Astoria at 3pm. The psychological thriller stars Kostas Koronaios, and Klelia Andriolatou, known for her role in the hit Netflix series, Maestro in Blue. For further information and tickets, visit www.hellenicfilmsociety.org. |
Hellenic Film Society Celebrates Women’s Month
With Screening of Animal on Sunday, March 9
Acclaimed Greek film is the talk of international film festivals
Astoria, NY — February 27, 2025 – The Hellenic Film Society (HFS) puts the focus on women as it celebrates Women’s Month in March. As part of its Always on Sunday monthly Greek film series, HFS will present Animal, the award-winning film that is taking international film festivals by storm. The screening, co-presented with New York Women in Film & Television (NYWIFT), will be shown Sunday, March 9 at 3pm at the prestigious Museum of the Moving Image.
Animal, directed and written by Sofia Exarchou, is produced by, starring, and about women. The haunting film is about a seasonal resort entertainer who comes to the life-changing realization that she is aging out of her career. The film has garnered 23 worldwide awards, including the Hellenic Film Academy Award for Best Picture, Best Director, Best Screenplay and Best Actress. Animal is a finalist for the European Union’s Lux Audience Award, the winner of which will be announced in June. The film, in Greek with English subtitles, is recommended for mature audiences only.
“Exarchou helms one of the most honest and raw portrayals of a woman’s self-exploration and self-destruction,” says HFS president Maria Miles. “Dimitra Vlagopoulou gives a tour-de-force performance ranging from fragile to ferocious, all the while holding the audience in the palm of her hand. Animal is one of the finest examples of women supporting women while achieving one of the most noteworthy Greek films in the last decade.”
To kick off Women’s Month on March 1, HFS will post an interview with Animal director Sofia Exarchou on its YouTube channel. Three additional interviews with Greek women filmmakers will be posted throughout the month of March.
This screening highlights the Hellenic Film Society’s dedication to showcasing compelling Greek cinema. For further information, to view the film trailer, or to purchase tickets, please visit www.hellenicfilmusa.org and follow on Facebook and Instagram. The Museum of the Moving Image, 36-01 35th Avenue in Astoria, is conveniently located near public transportation.
About the Hellenic Film Society
The Hellenic Film Society is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to promoting Greek cinema and sharing the richness of Greek films with American audiences. Based in Astoria, NY, HFS presents an array of feature films, documentaries, and shorts by Greek filmmakers and those of Greek descent, as well as works that highlight the cultures of Greece and Cyprus.
HFS is known for its annual New York Greek Film Expo, a Greek film festival for all New Yorkers, and its ongoing Always on Sunday monthly film series, presented in collaboration with the Museum of the Moving Image. Additionally, the organization partners with other prominent film festivals across the United States, including the Chicago Greek Film Expo, the South Florida Greek Film Festival, and the Atlanta Greek Film Expo.
The Kallinikeion Foundation and the Stavros Niarchos Foundation (SNF) are the lead supporters of the Hellenic Film Society. Additional support is provided by Microsoft, Greek National Tourism Organization, Axia Spirit, the New York City Council, Queens Borough President Donovan Richards, and Antenna Satellite TV.
For more information, to volunteer, or to support our mission, visit www.hellenicfilmsociety.org.
Media Relations:
Nancy Nicolelis
Marketing Communications
nancy.nicolelis.hfs@gmail.com
347-934-9497
 |
| The Hellenic Film Society will mark Women’s Month with a screening of the internationally acclaimed Greek film, Animal, on Sunday, March 9 at the Museum of the Moving Image in Astoria. For more information, visit www.hellenicfilmsociety.org. |
Hellenic Film Society Announces Special Valentine’s Weekend Screening
Of ATHENS MIDNIGHT RADIO, Renos Haralambidis’ Acclaimed Love Story
At the Museum of the Moving Image in Astoria
Astoria, NY – February 6, 2025 – The Hellenic Film Society (HFS) celebrates Valentine’s weekend with a screening of the acclaimed Greek romantic drama, Athens Midnight Radio, directed, written by, and starring, Renos Haralambidis. Two screenings, part of HFS’s Always on Sunday monthly Greek film series, will take place on Sunday, February 16 at 3pm and 5pm at the Museum of the Moving Image in Astoria. A Q&A with Renos Haralambidis via Zoom will take place after the 3pm screening.
Athens Midnight Radio (2024) tells the story of a veteran Athens radio host who, on the night of his 50th birthday, reflects on his past and searches for a long-lost love from his time as an Evzone. As he plays passionate voice messages from an old answering machine, he hopes to reconnect with the woman who left him decades ago. Amidst outdated cassette tapes and cutting-edge digital technology, his late-night broadcast unfolds into a nostalgic and poetic journey through Athens—its forgotten voices, urban landscapes, and ancient ruins—while a mysterious listener waits for the perfect moment to call in. Through the magic of late-night radio, his emotional odyssey becomes a voyage of self-discovery and redemption.
“This film is masterfully told by an expert storyteller. Haralambidis knows exactly how to stir the emotions of the audience” says Maria Miles, president of the Hellenic Film Society.” The film was a box office hit in Greece and sold out at the New York Greek Film Expo last year, attesting to its widespread appeal.” The screening also follows the Hellenic Film Society’s retrospective on Renos Haralambidis’ work during Expo 2023, which honored his contributions to Greek cinema.
Film Details:
- Language: Greek with English subtitles
- Runtime: 75 minutes
- Trailer: Watch Here (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v53azN12zAA)
This screening highlights the Hellenic Film Society’s dedication to showcasing compelling Greek cinema and celebrating timeless stories of love and longing. The Museum of the Moving Image, 36-01 35 Avenue in Astoria, is conveniently located near public transportation. Tickets are available here now.
About the Hellenic Film Society
The Hellenic Film Society (USA), Inc., (HFS), is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to promoting Greek cinema and sharing the richness of Greek films with American audiences. Based in Astoria, NY, HFS presents an array of feature films, documentaries, and shorts by Greek filmmakers and those of Greek descent, as well as works that highlight the cultures of Greece and Cyprus.
HFS is known for its annual New York Greek Film Expo and its ongoing Always on Sunday monthly film series, presented in collaboration with the Museum of the Moving Image. Additionally, the organization partners with other prominent film festivals across the United States, including the Chicago Greek Film Expo, the South Florida Greek Film Festival, and the Atlanta Greek Film Expo.
The Kallinikeion Foundation and the Stavros Niarchos Foundation (SNF) are the lead supporters of the Hellenic Film Society USA. Additional support is provided by Microsoft, Greek National Tourism Organization, Axia Spirit, the New York City Council, Queens Borough President Donovan Richards, and Antenna Satellite TV.
For more information, to volunteer, or to support our mission, visit www.hellenicfilmsociety.org or contact us at info@hellenicfilmsociety.org
Media Relations:
Nancy Nicolelis
Marketing Communications
nancy.nicolelis.hfs@gmail.com
347-934-9497
 |  |
The Hellenic Film Society Unveils New Logo as Part of Exciting Rebranding Initiative
New York, NY – Tuesday, January 28, 2025 – The Hellenic Film Society (HFS) is proud to announce the launch of a new branding initiative highlighted by its new logo and symbol, marking a fresh chapter in its ongoing mission to celebrate and promote Greek cinema and culture. Designed by American-born Greek type designer and filmmaker Thoma Kikis, the new logo reflects a modern, sophisticated aesthetic while paying homage to the Society’s cultural roots and rich history in cinema.
The updated logo represents a bold step forward, aligning with the Society’s commitment to innovation and excellence in showcasing the very best of Greek filmmaking. The clean and minimalist design —centered around a stylized “H” representing Hellenic—is a departure from the previous, more intricate design. This evolution underscores the Society’s vision for a streamlined, contemporary approach to its branding identity, as it seeks to connect with a broader, global audience.
“The Hellenic Film Society has always been dedicated to bridging the past and present of Greek cinema,” said Maria Miles, HFS president. “Our new logo is more than just a fresh design—it’s a bold statement about who we are and where we’re headed. It captures the essence of our mission while serving as a visual representation of our dynamic future. We’re thrilled to share this milestone with our vibrant community of supporters and cinephiles.”
Thoma Kikis, the artist behind the new logo, and his studio TEKNIKE, are known for their innovative, minimalist, and thoughtful approach to design. “Designing the new logo for the Hellenic Film Society was an honor and a challenge,” said Kikis. “I wanted to create a symbol that reflects the history of cinema and film and the timeless beauty of Greek culture, while looking boldly toward the future. The ‘H’ inspired from film stock perforations, serves as a focal point—symbolizing both a bridge and a ladder, representing connection and ascent.”
Kikis elaborated on his design process, stating, “My objective was to use existing forms to craft an authentic, minimalist mark that communicates the Society’s mission and forward vision. Grounded in research, I drew on my experience to create a form that balances structural integrity, adaptability, and aesthetic appeal. The result is a modern interpretation of both cinema and Hellenic identity, infused with the vibrant essence of New York City. Like great architecture, this logo embodies strength, harmony, and timeless simplicity.”
James DeMetro, HFS founder and president emeritus, shared his excitement about the rebranding initiative: “The launch of this new logo is more than just a visual change—it’s a celebration of our evolution and a commitment to embracing new horizons. Our goal has always been to highlight the artistry and diversity of Greek filmmakers, and this rebranding strengthens our ability to connect with audiences worldwide.”
According to Miles, “Throughout its history, the Hellenic Film Society has championed the richness of Greek culture through the cinematic arts. With this rebranding, we are poised to achieve even greater impact,” she said. “We invite visionary donors, cinephiles, and community leaders to join us on this exciting journey. Your support will help us amplify the voices of Greek filmmakers, preserve our cultural heritage, and inspire new generations. Together, we can ensure that Greek cinema continues to shine brightly on the global stage.”
As part of this rebranding effort, the Hellenic Film Society will continue to expand its programming, including exclusive film screenings, special events, and educational initiatives that highlight the diversity and artistry of Greek cinema with the annual New York Greek Film Expo and monthly film series Always on Sunday. The rebranding also includes updates across the Society’s digital platforms and promotional materials to ensure a cohesive and engaging experience for all audiences.
The Hellenic Film Society invites everyone to explore the new logo and celebrate this exciting milestone with us. Visit www.hellenicfilmsociety.org to learn more about our upcoming events and initiatives.
About Thoma Kikis and TEKNIKE
Thoma Kikis is a designer, creative director, film producer, and entrepreneur. He holds a BSc from NYU and is a board member of HFS and member of the Hellenic Film Academy. He has also produced films including Darkon (most recently optioned by Disney) and Alps (with Oscar®-nominated director Yorgos Lanthimos). Inspired by personal loss, he’s dedicated to mitochondrial research, co-founding Kannalife Sciences and Neuropathix, securing over $5M in grants from the NIH and The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research, with recognition from NBC, TIME, and Bloomberg. He founded TEKNIKE, a New York-based creative consultancy, designing numerous commercial typefaces, working with clients including MTV, Hulu, and Hermès. TEKNIKE focuses on creating visually striking, conceptually meaningful identities by synthesizing novel ideas, versatile storytelling, groundbreaking technologies, and popular culture to uncover narratives that resonate and leave a lasting impact.
For more information, visit www.thomakikis.com and www.teknike.com.
About the Hellenic Film Society
The Hellenic Film Society (USA), Inc., (HFS), is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to promoting Greek cinema and sharing the richness of Greek films with American audiences. Based in Astoria, NY, HFS presents an array of feature films, documentaries, and shorts by Greek filmmakers and those of Greek descent, as well as works that highlight the cultures of Greece and Cyprus.
HFS is known for its annual New York Greek Film Expo and its ongoing Always on Sunday monthly film series, presented in collaboration with the Museum of the Moving Image. Additionally, the organization partners with other prominent film festivals across the United States, including the Chicago Greek Film Expo, the South Florida Greek Film Festival, and the Atlanta Greek Film Expo.
For more information, to volunteer, or to support our mission, visit www.hellenicfilmsociety.org or contact us at info@hellenicfilmsociety.org
For further interview requests, or high-resolution images of the new logo, please contact
Media Relations:
Nancy Nicolelis
Marketing Communications
nancy.nicolelis.hfs@gmail.com | info@hellenicfilmsociety.org
347-934-9497
 |
NEW LOGOS
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HELLENIC FILM SOCIETY ANNOUNCES SCREENING OF AWARD-WINNING DOCUMENTARY
DOURGOUTI TOWN AT MUSEUM OF THE MOVING IMAGE
Sunday, January 12 at 3pm
ASTORIA, NY –January 3, 2025– The Hellenic Film Society USA is pleased to announce the New York screening of the acclaimed documentary Dourgouti Town, directed by Dimitris Bavellas. The screening will take place on January 12, 2025 at 3pm at the prestigious Museum of the Moving Image.
Dourgouti Town (2024, 88 min) explores the profound historical and cultural significance of the Dourgouti district, located just south of the Acropolis in Athens. Narrated by renowned Greek singer Haris Alexiou, the film chronicles the neighborhood’s evolution—from housing World War I refugees in the 1920s to becoming the Armenian ghetto of Athens, and later a center of resistance against Nazi occupation during World War II.
In the 1960s, the area underwent significant redevelopment with public housing initiatives, setting the stage for the gentrification challenges faced today. Director Dimitris Bavellas, with personal ties to the district, underscores the importance of balancing progress with the preservation of cultural identity. “We must acknowledge change,” says Bavellas, “but it is crucial to prevent the mass exploitation of historically significant neighborhoods and protect the well-being of local residents.”
The documentary has received international recognition, including the Grand Festival Award for Foreign Documentary at the 2024 Berkeley Video & Film Festival.
The film’s trailer can be seen here
The film is in Greek with English subtitles.
This screening underscores the Hellenic Film Society’s commitment to presenting compelling stories that resonate with global audiences.
About the Hellenic Film Society
The Hellenic Film Society USA (HFS) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to promoting Greek cinema and sharing the richness of Greek films with American audiences. Based in Astoria, NY, HFS presents an array of feature films, documentaries, and shorts by Greek filmmakers and those of Greek descent, as well as works that highlight the cultures of Greece and Cyprus.
HFS is known for its annual New York Greek Film Expo and its ongoing Always on Sunday monthly film series, hosted in collaboration with the Museum of the Moving Image. Additionally, the organization partners with other prominent film festivals across the United States, including the Chicago Greek Film Festival, the South Florida Greek Film Festival and the Atlanta Greek Film Expo.
The Kallinikeion Foundation and the Stavros Niarchos Foundation (SNF) are the lead supporters of the Hellenic Film Society USA. Additional support is provided by Microsoft, Greek National Tourism Organization, the New York City Council, Queens Borough President Donovan Richards, and Antenna Satellite TV. Promotional support provided in part by the New York City Tourism Foundation.
For more information, to volunteer, or to support our mission, visit www.hellenicfilmusa.org or contact us at info@hellenicfilmusa.org.
Media Relations:
Nancy Nicolelis
Marketing Communications
nancy.nicolelis.hfs@gmail.com
347-934-9497
 |
| The Hellenic Film Society will present Dourgouti Town on Sunday, January 12 at 3pm at the Museum of the Moving Image in Astoria. The award-winning documentary features the acclaimed singer and actress Haris Alexiou, who traces her roots to the neighborhood. |
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