Notable Greek film director, renowned for his extensive experience as an assistant director in over 40 productions, began his own career in the early 1960s. His first short film, "O Kleftis," was released in 1965, followed by his second short film, "Tzimis o Tigris," in 1967, which garnered numerous awards at various film festivals.
The director made his feature film debut in 1972 with "Anna's Engagement," which won accolades at the Berlin Film Festival, London Film Festival, and more. However, his career was briefly interrupted when he was forced to spend six months in exile during the Greek junta in 1973.
Upon his return, he was approached by renowned composer Manos Hatzidakis to create a documentary based on his music, resulting in "The Great Love Songs" in 1973. The director then tackled a controversial political allegory with "Happy Day" in 1977.
The 1980s saw the director's work take on a more historical tone, with "Eleftherios Venizelos: 1910-1927" in 1980, a biographical film about the Greek politician. He continued to explore the complexities of human emotions in "Stone Years" in 1985, a drama based on a true story that won a best actress award at the Venice Film Festival and achieved commercial success.
The director's work in the 1990s included "I Fanela me to '9'" in 1988, a film about a soccer player, as well as "Quiet Days in August" in 1991, which received a special mention at the Berlin Film Festival. His subsequent films, "Akropol" in 1996 and "It's a Long Road" in 1998, showcased his continued dedication to storytelling and his ability to adapt to various genres and themes.
