All 25 Stavros Xarhakos Movies In Order — All The Best (And Worst) Films To Watch Online
If you’re a fan of Greek cinema and looking for an array of compelling movies, then Stavros Xarhakos’s filmography is the perfect place to start! In this roundup article, we delve into the best of Stavros Xarhakos’s work, from his most acclaimed dramas to thought-provoking documentaries. By the end of the article, you’ll have a solid understanding of why Stavros Xarhakos is one of Greece’s most beloved cinematic talents.
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1. Journey (1962)
Embark on a touching journey with the captivating Greek drama, “Journey” (1962). Follow Marina, a young and impoverished Greek girl, as she yearns for love and desperately seeks a way out of her dismal life in the slums of Piraeus, Greece.
2. The Rape (1963)
“The Rape, “ originally titled “Amok, “ is a gripping and intense 1963 film from Greek director Dinos Dimopoulos. Set during the 1960s, this drama-filled adventure story unfolds when a group of nine women from a women’s prison escape their confinement, seeking refuge on a remote, deserted island. However, they are far from safety as they discover the island is already occupied by seven men, led by an ex-Nazi, who are on a quest to find a hidden treasure.
3. The Red Lanterns (1963)
The Red Lanterns, also known as Ta kokkina fanaria in its original Greek title, is a gripping 1963 drama set in Troumba, Athens, Greece. Narrating the intertwined lives of five women who work as prostitutes just before the nationwide banning of brothels, this film offers an unflinching portrayal of their struggles and the challenges they face in a changing society. Captured in the stunning black and white cinematography, these stories unfold against the backdrop of the 1960s, with the Piraeus and Attica regions of Greece forming the backdrop for the emotional depth of the narrative.
4. Lola (1964)
“Lola” (1964), directed by Dinos Dimopoulos and written by Ilias Lyberopoulos, is a gripping Greek drama film that weaves a tale of love, betrayal, and heartache. Set in the sultry world of prostitution, the film follows Aris (played by Nikos Kourkoulos), a cunning and deadly knife-wielding protagonist. Betrayed by his accomplices, Aris flees to Troumba to reunite with his cherished Lola (Jenny Karezi), only to be hunted down by the vindictive owner of a mean cabaret, who has a personal vendetta against him.
5. Modern Cinderella (1965)
In the enchanting world of “Modern Cinderella” (1965), a young woman from humble beginnings breaks free from her mundane existence of working as a secretary in a big company. Her magical journey takes her to the sparkling city of Rome, where she encounters an attractive manager who ignites her heart and her dreams. As they navigate the turbulent waters of love and career in the bustling city, can they find a way to bridge the gap between their different worlds?
6. The Hot Month of August (1966)
“The Hot Month of August”, originally translated as “O zestos minas Avgoustos” in Greek gothic, takes us on an exhilarating journey of unhinged passions and unforgettable connections. In 1966, director Sokrates Kapsaskis masterfully directed this thriller, that’s hard to forget.
7. Diplopennies (1966)
“Diplopennies” is a musical comedy film set in Greece that was released in 1966. The plot revolves around a talented, impoverished worker who catches the ear of a renowned orchestra conductor. The conductor offers him a job in his band, and his wife soon follows suit, also wanting to unleash her own talents in the nightclub scene.
8. Koritsia ston ilio (1968)
Experience an enchanting blend of love, music, and heartwarming drama in the 1968 film “Koritsia ston Ilio, “ originally titled in Greek. Set in the picturesque and historical town of Athens, Greece, the film revolves around a shepherd boy who unexpectedly falls in love with an English tourist exploring the cultural depths of the city.
9. I Athina meta ta mesanyhta (1968)
Experience the vibrant and unforgettable spirit of Athens’ thriving nightlife in the captivating documentary, “I Athina meta ta mesanyhta” (1968). This film takes you on a thrilling journey through the pulsating heart of Greece’s capital, as it masterfully captures the essence of the legendary late 1960s Athens entertainment scene.
10. Signs of Life (1968)
“Signs of Life, “ directed by the iconic Werner Herzog, is a gripping drama set in the post-World War II era. This tense, thought-provoking film follows the lives of three wounded soldiers who are assigned to protect a fortress on a remote island in the Aegean Sea.
11. Gymnoi sto dromo (1969)
“Gymnoi sto dromo” (1969) weaves a tale of passion and defiance against the backdrop of Athens, Greece. This poignant drama transports its viewers to a time of social prejudice while exploring the forbidden romance between a wealthy heiress and a humble worker. Despite being pulled apart by their contrasting social standings, their love story captivates the audience, leaving one to ponder if they truly belong together.
12. Passion Fever (1969)
“Passion Fever” is a drama film directed by Doris Wishman and Stelios Jackson. The movie released in 1969 and has a runtime of 1 hour and 10 minutes.
13. Vlepe: ‘Loukianos’ (1970)
Vlepe: ‘Loukianos’ (1970) is a gripping Greek drama film that explores the depths of human emotions and relationships. Directed by Giorgos Emirzas and co-written by the director himself along with Loukianos, the film boasts a powerful storyline that captures the essence of the human experience. Featuring a talented ensemble of Greek actors, including Anna Fonsou, Eleni Anousaki, and George Dialegmenos, Vlepe: ‘Loukianos’ showcases raw, unfiltered emotions and takes viewers on a journey that reflects the complexities of life.
14. Lysistrata (1972)
In “Lysistrata, “ a 1972 musical comedy film, two resolute women, Lysistrata from Athens and Labito from Sparta, join forces during the tumultuous Peloponnesian War. Desperate for peace, these audacious women declare a sex strike, withdrawing their affections until the men come to their senses. With a captivating blend of humor and ancient Greek charm, the film delves into the challenges of reconciliation and the power of unity as our protagonists navigate the complexities of war and love.
15. The Songs of Fire (1975)
“The Songs of Fire” is a groundbreaking documentary released in 1975, capturing the profound impact of the Colonel’s Junta on the Greek people. Delving into the heart of Athens and the rich cultural fabric of Greece, this riveting film uncovers the deep emotions and unabashed celebrations that erupted following the fall of the oppressive dictatorial regime.
16. The Street Smarts (1979)
“The Street Smarts” is a 1979 Greek comedy film that follows the journey of a recently-released criminal mastermind who finds himself reuniting with his old gang. As he falls back into familiar patterns, viewers are left wondering if everything is as it seems.
17. Rembetiko (1983)
“Rembetiko” is a captivating 1983 Greek film that delves into the world of Rembetes, a group of talented singers and musicians whose music is said to be the Greek equivalent to blues. Set in the early decades of the 20th century, the movie tells a compelling story through the eyes of a young female singer, providing an enriching look into Greek music and culture.
18. Sweet Country (1987)
“Sweet Country” is a gripping drama set in 1973 Chile, as a U. S. woman joins the underground resistance against the horrific military regime.
19. High Season (1987)
“High Season” (1987) is a captivating comedy-romance that transports viewers to the sun-soaked beauty of Lindos, Rhodes, Greece. The film captures the vibrant lives of a diverse ensemble of characters, including an English expat photographer, her daughter, a rugged player ex, a cunning commie spy, and a dashing “00” agent.
20. O Stavros Xarhakos sta Meteora (1993)
O Stavros Xarhakos sta Meteora, a 1993 film from Greece, offers a captivating blend of music and storytelling. Directed by João Correa, this hour-and-ten-minute gem is an ode to Greek culture and tradition, told through the powerful voice of Stavros Xarhakos. As Xarhakos sings, the film weaves a narrative that is both poetic and rich in depth.
21. Mighty Aphrodite (1995)
“Mighty Aphrodite” is a lighthearted comedy directed by Woody Allen, who also penned the script. The film follows a New York sportswriter named Lenny, played by Allen himself, as he discovers that his adopted son is surprisingly gifted. In an unexpected turn of events, Lenny embarks on a quest to find the boy’s birth mother, unveiling an unexpected, albeit hilarious connection to the world of adult entertainment.
22. Mirupafshim (1997)
“Mirupafshim” is a gripping drama film that takes you on a journey into the lives of illegal Albanian immigrants living in bustling Athens. Directed by Giorgos Korras and Christos Voupouras, this Greek-Bulgarian-Cypriot co-production tells the intense story of an innocent Greek intellectual, Christos, who unwittingly becomes entangled with a group of streetwise, manipulative scam artists of Albanian descent.
23. To klama vgike ap’ ton Paradeiso (2001)
Step into a world of nostalgia and laughter with the 2001 comedy-musical parody, “To klama vgike ap’ ton Paradeiso. “ Set in the vibrant atmosphere of old Greek cinema from the 1960s, this film takes you on a whimsical journey filled with sweet melodies and spirited song and dance.
24. Guiness (2009)
Guiness, a 2009 adventure-comedy, presents a tale of unforeseen misfortune for its protagonist, who seeks a long-lost fortune. The movie follows the journey of an unfortunate gambler, lured by a treasure map to an isolated tavern in an isolated region.
25. Cyrano Agency (2010)
The Cyrano Agency, a delightful 2010 South Korean romantic-comedy film, follows the story of a secretive dating agency that transforms the lives of those struggling in matters of love. Set in the charming city of Seoul, the film’s protagonist, Byeong-hoon (Eom Tae-woong), is a dedicated matchmaker, working alongside the vibrant and charming Min-yeong (Park Sin-hye). Together, they orchestrate seemingly ordinary romantic encounters, while staying hidden in the shadows.
