‘Polyxeni,’ directed by Dora Masklavanou, has been announced as Greece’s official Oscar contender in the foreign-language category.
Taking place in 1955, the film follows the life of Polyxeni — a 12-year-old orphan girl adopted by a wealthy Greek Istanbulite family and separated from her younger brother — as she begins a new life, attends school, comes of age and falls in love.
However, after 15 years, the protagonist realizes she is the target of a devious plan crafted by people vying for her large inheritance.
‘Polyxeni’ released in Greece on December 14, 2017 and received the Grand Prix award at the 2018 Tetouan International Meditteranean Film Festival. The film also marks Masklavanou’s third feature.
On multiple occasions — five to be exact — Greek films have featured in the Oscar’s foreign language race, most recently in 2010 for Yorgos Lanthimos’ ‘Dogtooth.’ Nonetheless, Greece has yet to take home the ultimate prize.
The foreign language category recognizes a feature film produced outside the United States with a predominantly non-English dialogue.
The Academy invites every country to submit its best film, which must be chosen by an organization, jury or committee composed of people from its film industry.
In 2017, more than 92 nations submitted films, while only five are annually selected as nominees from the crowded field.
Watch the Trailer
*****
Since you’re here… I have a small favor to ask.
More and more people than ever before are reading The Pappas Post and despite increasing costs to maintain the site and provide you with the quality content that you deserve, I will never “force” you to pay for our website or add a paywall. I believe in the democracy of the internet and want to keep this site and its enriching content free for everyone. But at the same time I’m asking those who frequent the site to chip in and help keep it both high quality— and free. We’ve implemented a “free-will” annual subscription for those who want to support our efforts. I guess it’s fair to call it a philotimo subscription… because you don’t have to do it but it’s really the right thing to do if you love the site and the content we publish. So if you like The Pappas Post and want to help, please consider becoming a “philotimo subscriber”. Click here to subscribe. If you’d rather make a one time donation, we will gladly accept any amount, with appreciation. Click here to donate any amount.
