Press

Press

2025 Press Releases

New York Greek Film Expo
October 2-12, 2025
Hellenic Film Society presents a Greek film festival for all New Yorkers

Screenings of the Latest Award-Winning Greek Films,
Appearances and Talks by Leading Greek Filmmakers
And a Pantelis Voulgaris Retrospective

Astoria, NY – August 26, 2025 – The Hellenic Film Society (HFS) is proud to present the New York Greek Film Expo, a Greek film festival for all New Yorkers, October 2—12, 2025. Programming will include screenings of the latest and greatest Greek films and special appearances by many of the actors and directors who brought them to life, who will be visiting from Greece. The second weekend will feature a retrospective of the acclaimed director Pantelis Voulgaris to be held at the prestigious Museum of the Moving Image (MoMI) in Astoria, NY. Voulgaris will also receive the HFS Lifetime Achievement Award.

The festival kicks off on Thursday, October 2 with the US premiere of the comedy Murphy’s Law, starring Katia Goulioni and Andreas Konstantinou, two of Greece’s most renowned actors. The film was directed by Angelos Frantzis. All three will attend opening night at the Directors Guild Theater in Manhattan for a Q&A with the audience.

Six additional new films will be shown Friday-Sunday October 3—5, at the Village East Cinema. Filmmakers from Greece will be on hand to discuss their films and engage in conversations with the audience. The Expo moves to the Barrymore Film Center in Fort Lee, NJ, October 7-8. During the last weekend, October 10-12, the Voulgaris retrospective will be shown at the MoMI in Astoria.

All films are in Greek with English subtitles.

“This year’s slate will have something for everyone- comedy, suspense, drama, social impact, and so much more. We’re delighted that so many of Greece’s A-List filmmakers and actors will be attending the Expo and interacting with our audiences,” says Maria Miles, Hellenic Film Society president. “We are honored to bestow our Lifetime Achievement Award to director and master filmmaker Pantelis Voulgaris who, in the course of five decades, has given us several cinematic masterpieces.”

For tickets and further information, please visit www.hellenicfilmsociety.org.

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.

In addition to its annual New York Greek Film Expo, a Greek film festival for all New Yorkers, the Society is known for 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, New York State Council on the Arts, 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

nancy.nicolelis.hfs@gmail.com
347-934-9497

Download the press release in its pdf version

Hellenic Film Society Presents Two Summer Movie Screenings
Sunday, August 24 | Friday, August 29

Celebrating Two Legendary Greek Performers:
Actor Olympia Dukakis and Singer Stelios Kazantzidis

Astoria, NY — August 13, 2025 – The Hellenic Film Society (HFS) is pleased to present two special summer screenings which celebrate two legendary Greek performers: Oscar-winning actor Olympia Dukakis and acclaimed singer Stelios Kazantzidis.

On Sunday, August 24 at dusk in Athens Square Park in Astoria, NY, HFS will present a free screening of the romantic comedy Moonstruck. Dukakis won an Academy Award for her performance as the mother of a lonely bookkeeper (Cher, in an Oscar-winning performance) who falls in love with her fiance’s brother. The film also stars Nicolas Cage. For further information, please visit https://hellenicfilmsociety.org/special-screenings#moonstruck

The following week, kicking off Labor Day weekend on Friday, August 29 at 7pm, HFS will present an encore performance of the award-winning international box office hit, Stelios. The biopic explores the life and extraordinary career of singer Stelios Kazantzidis, whose voice and songbook touched the hearts of Greeks around the world. The film, with an immensely popular soundtrack, is in Greek with English subtitles.

Stelios will be shown at the newly renovated Sapan Greenport Theater in Greenport, NY, where many New York area Greeks vacation during the summer. Following the screening, there will be an audience Q&A and live performance by musician Mavrothi Kontanis. For more information and to buy tickets, please visit https://hellenicfilmsociety.org/special-screenings#stelios

“We’re thrilled to pay tribute to Olympia Dukakis and Stelios Kazantzidis, two hugely popular performers who have meant so much to the Greek community and to audiences of all nationalities,” says Maria C. Miles, Hellenic Film Society president. “These two screenings will inspire our audience to get ready for the New York Greek Film Expo, a Greek film festival for all New Yorkers, which runs October 2-12, when we’ll be showing the latest and best Greek films in Manhattan, Astoria, and Fort, Lee, NJ.”

Two upcoming summer screenings

Sunday, August 24 | FREE FILM PRESENTATION begins at dusk, approximately 8pm
MOONSTRUCK, starring Olympia Dukakis, Cher, Nicolas Cage
Athens Square Park, 30th Ave at 30th St, Astoria, NY

Viewers are encouraged to bring their own chairs or blanket for comfort.

The Hellenic Film Society is proud to present this free screening in cooperation with NYC Parks Arts, Culture & Fun and Movies Under the Stars.
https://hellenicfilmsociety.org/special-screenings#moonstruck

Labor Day Weekend
Friday, August 29 | 7pm
STELIOS, starring Christos Mastoras, Klelia Renesi
Sapan Greenport Theater, 211 Front St, Greenport, NY 11944
https://hellenicfilmsociety.org/special-screenings#stelios

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, New York State Council on the Arts, 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

FREE MOVIE IN ATHENS SQUARE PARK
30 Ave at 30 Street
Sunday, August 24 at duskMOONSTRUCK
Presented by the Hellenic Film Society
And NYC Parks Artshttps://hellenicfilmsociety.org/special-screenings#moonstruc
ENCORE SCREENING

STELIOS

Friday, August 29 at 7pm
Sapan Greenport Theater
211 Front St, Greenport, NY 11944

https://hellenicfilmsociety.org/special-screenings#stelios

Download the press release in its pdf version

The Hellenic Film Society Unveils New Poster and Identity
For New York Greek Film Expo 2025

A Visual Collaboration by Thoma Kikis and Tiffany Apostolou

Astoria, NY – Tuesday, July 15, 2025 – The Hellenic Film Society (HFS) proudly reveals the official concept poster and new identity for the New York Greek Film Expo 2025, a richly layered, hand-illustrated collaboration between American-born Greek multidisciplinary artists  Thoma Kikis and Tiffany Apostolou. Developed through Kikis’ New York-based studio TEKNIKE, the poster and identity establish its own visual experience, a cinematic homage to shared Greek heritage and New York’s cultural vibrancy, marking a milestone in the Expo’s history and signaling a bold new creative direction for the organization.

Hosted annually by the Hellenic Film Society, the New York Greek Film Expo is a marquee event celebrating the vibrancy of Greek cinema. The Expo features premieres, Q&As, and curated selections from top Greek filmmakers, connecting audiences in New York and beyond to the artistry of Greek storytelling.

At once nostalgic and contemporary, the hand-drawn line art poster has an architectural sketch style that unfolds as a multi-part visual composition set in and out of a classic film theater, flanked by the intricate New York skyline. This is no ordinary composition: it’s a screen, within a screen, within a screen. At its center is a scene from an open-air cinema in Greece, with the Acropolis and Parthenon dramatically extruding from the frame onto the canvas. The viewer becomes part of the audience, seated among a crowd that reflects both New York and the Greek diaspora experience, symbolizing not only the setting, but as active participants in this global cultural dialogue.

“The idea was to create a portal,” said Thoma Kikis, founder of TEKNIKE and the concept originator. “I didn’t want this to be just a poster, but an invitation to step inside a story. The concept was to connect classic landmarks from Greece and New York City as a new emotional icon, through the shared language of cinema. I wanted the poster art to holistically evoke the feeling of both a memory and a moment happening now and I think we achieved that.”

To expand and enrich the vision, Kikis invited Tiffany Apostolou to collaborate. “My own work is rooted in form finding details – illustration, architecture, and storytelling,” he said. “I noticed something special about Tiffany’s work and her sensibilities were completely in sync with mine as we shared a common visual language. Our collaboration was seamless and deeply rewarding, her sensitivity to nuance and atmosphere brought the piece to life with remarkable elegance and soul.”

“When Thoma reached out to me to collaborate on the poster design for the New York Greek Film Expo, and to help celebrate years of HFS’ cultural contributions, I was both deeply moved and excited,” said Apostolou. “Through the design, I wanted to express the fun and natural way in which HFS’s work interweaves Greece and New York. This is why you’ll see the beloved Ciné Paris in Athens with elements of the Acropolis, Plaka and Psyrri in its background that begin to merge with different neighborhoods of New York that flood the left and right sides of the poster. I hope everyone enjoys the design as much as I enjoyed the collaboration and making-of.”

Rendered in a refined palette of orange, black and white, the poster draws inspiration from classic line art illustration and the iconic aesthetic of The New Yorker covers. The final design is a composition that feels both timeless and contemporary, romantic yet architecturally grounded.

As part of this visual refresh, HFS also unveiled a new logo identity for the New York Greek Film Expo, also designed by Kikis, building upon the recent rebranding of HFS.

“Designing the New York Greek Film Expo logo was about expanding the visual language of the Hellenic Film Society in a way that speaks directly to the energy of the city and the event,” said Kikis. “The identity is a graphic ticket, an invitation to participate, to celebrate, to experience Greek cinema in a bold, modern way.”

“This artwork perfectly captures the mission of HFS,” said HFS president Maria Miles. “It reflects our dual focus, on preserving cultural memory and fostering innovation. Greek cinema continues to evolve, and so must the ways we present and celebrate it. This poster and the new logo are expressions of that evolution: warm, sophisticated, and deeply human. They invite new audiences to discover the emotional depth of Greek film, while honoring the community that has supported it for generations.”

HFS founder and president emeritus Jimmy DeMetro shared his enthusiasm about the initiative: “The launch of this new poster and identity 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 visual artistry strengthens our ability to connect with audiences worldwide.”

The poster and new logo identity will serve as the signature visual for the 2025 New York Greek Film Expo, taking place October 2-12, 2025.

The Hellenic Film Society invites everyone to explore the new poster and logo identity for the New York Greek Film Expo and celebrate this exciting new milestone with us. Visit www.hellenicfilmsociety.org to learn more about our upcoming events and initiatives.

About the Artists

Thoma Kikis is a type designer, illustrator, 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 award-winning films including Darkon (most recently optioned by Disney) and Alps (with Oscar®-nominated director Yorgos Lanthimos). Inspired by personal loss, he’s dedicated to neuroinflammatory and 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.

Tiffany Apostolou is a New York-based digital product designer, illustrator, and independent curator. Having lived and worked in Greece before returning to New York, Tiffany developed a unique lens through which to see both the world and her work. Her background in architecture and the arts deeply informs her creative approach. In product design, she leads with research, strategy, and methodology; through illustration, she explores mental and emotional landscapes—creating hand-drawn worlds where different cultures, time periods, and design traditions comingle. Her work seeks to bring joy, reflection, and a touch of Mediterranean charm to both mind and soul.

For more information, visit http://www.tiffanyapostolou.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
347-934-9497

POSTER AND NEW LOGO

Download the press release in its pdf version

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.

Download the press release in its pdf version

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.

Download the press release in its pdf version

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.

Download the press release in its pdf version

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:

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

 

Download the press release in its pdf version

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

Download the press release in its pdf version

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.

Download the press release in its pdf version