Greece’s allure extends beyond its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture; it has also been a captivating backdrop for a wide array of films. Whether you’re drawn to heartwarming romances, thrilling action sequences, or insightful dramas, the films set in Greece offer a unique perspective on this beautiful country. In this guide, we explore 18 movies about Greece to watch that showcase the diverse ways this Mediterranean paradise has been represented on screen.
Mamma Mia! (2008)
Director: Phyllida Lloyd
Starring: Meryl Streep, Amanda Seyfried, Pierce Brosnan, Colin Firth
Synopsis: Mamma Mia! is a lively musical that brings the music of ABBA to life against the stunning backdrop of a Greek island. The film follows Sophie (Amanda Seyfried), who is about to get married and dreams of having her estranged father walk her down the aisle. Her mother, Donna (Meryl Streep), has kept the identity of her father a secret, leading Sophie to invite three possible candidates to the wedding.
Significance: This film is celebrated for its picturesque portrayal of the Greek island of Skopelos. The island’s natural beauty and charming architecture enhance the movie’s cheerful and romantic atmosphere, making it a visual feast for viewers and a great introduction to Greece’s idyllic islands.
Key Highlights
- Location: Skopelos, Greece
- Famous Scenes: The wedding scene, the various beach scenes
- Cultural Impact: The film has helped boost tourism to Skopelos, with fans eager to visit the filming locations.
My Life in Ruins (2009)
Director: Donald Petrie
Starring: Nia Vardalos, Richard Dreyfuss, Alexis Georgoulis
Synopsis: My Life in Ruins follows Georgia (Nia Vardalos), a tour guide who is disillusioned with her job and her life. When she takes a group of tourists on a journey through Greece, she finds herself rediscovering the magic of the country and the joy of connecting with others.
Significance: This film provides a comedic yet heartfelt look at Greece’s historical and archaeological sites. It serves as both a travel guide and a romantic comedy, featuring beautiful locations like the Acropolis and the ancient city of Delphi.
Key Highlights
- Location: Various Greek archaeological sites
- Famous Scenes: The tour of ancient ruins, the romantic scenes
- Cultural Impact: The film highlights Greece’s rich history and has inspired many viewers to explore its historical landmarks.
Before Midnight (2013)
Director: Richard Linklater
Starring: Ethan Hawke, Julie Delpy
Synopsis: Before Midnight is the third installment in the critically acclaimed “Before” trilogy. The film continues the story of Jesse (Ethan Hawke) and Céline (Julie Delpy) as they navigate the complexities of their relationship while on vacation in the Peloponnesian Peninsula.
Significance: Set against the stunning Greek landscape, this film offers a profound exploration of love and relationships. The Peloponnesian Peninsula’s scenic beauty provides a picturesque setting that complements the film’s intimate dialogue and emotional depth.
Key Highlights
- Location: Peloponnesian Peninsula, Greece
- Famous Scenes: The conversations in the local town, the scenic drives
- Cultural Impact: The film showcases Greece’s landscapes and provides a thoughtful examination of romantic relationships.
Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants (2005)
Director: Ken Kwapis
Starring: Amber Tamblyn, Alexis Bledel, Blake Lively
Synopsis: Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants follows four friends who share a magical pair of jeans that fits each of them perfectly. As the friends embark on separate summer adventures, one of them travels to Greece, where she has a transformative experience.
Significance: The film provides a glimpse into Greek culture through the eyes of a young American. The scenes shot in Greece offer a contrast between American and Greek lifestyles, enriching the narrative with cultural diversity.
Key Highlights
- Location: Santorini, Greece
- Famous Scenes: The scenes set in Santorini’s charming streets
- Cultural Impact: The film highlights the beauty of Santorini and introduces viewers to Greek culture through a teen comedy lens.
The Big Blue (1988)
Director: Luc Besson
Starring: Jean-Marc Barr, Jean Reno, Rosanna Arquette
Synopsis: The Big Blue is a visually stunning film about the world of free diving. It follows the lives of two childhood friends who become world-class divers. The film features extensive underwater scenes filmed around the Greek island of Amorgos.
Significance: The film is renowned for its breathtaking underwater cinematography and captures the serene beauty of Greece’s waters. It’s a deep dive into both the physical and emotional landscapes of its characters.
Key Highlights
- Location: Amorgos, Greece
- Famous Scenes: Underwater diving scenes, scenic shots of the island
- Cultural Impact: The film showcases Greece’s natural beauty and has become a classic in the genre of adventure and drama.
For Your Eyes Only (1981)
Director: John Glen
Starring: Roger Moore, Carole Bouquet, Topol
Synopsis: For Your Eyes Only is a James Bond film that features Bond’s quest to retrieve a stolen piece of equipment. The movie includes key scenes set in Greece, including action sequences and romantic interludes.
Significance: This film highlights various Greek landmarks, including the ancient city of Corinth and the picturesque island of Skiathos. It offers a thrilling perspective of Greece through the lens of a high-stakes spy adventure.
Key Highlights
- Location: Corinth, Skiathos, Greece
- Famous Scenes: The chase scenes in ancient ruins, the dramatic boat scenes
- Cultural Impact: The film introduces global audiences to iconic Greek locations through the action-packed world of James Bond.
Captain Corelli’s Mandolin (2001)
Director: John Madden
Starring: Nicolas Cage, Penélope Cruz
Synopsis: Captain Corelli’s Mandolin is a romantic drama set during World War II on the Greek island of Cephalonia. It follows the story of a love affair between an Italian soldier and a Greek woman amidst the backdrop of war.
Significance: The film provides a poignant look at the effects of war on Greek life and culture. It beautifully showcases the island’s landscapes and the emotional depth of its characters.
Key Highlights
- Location: Cephalonia, Greece
- Famous Scenes: The romantic and war scenes on the island
- Cultural Impact: The film highlights the island’s beauty and the impact of historical events on its residents.
Tomb Raider: The Cradle of Life (2003)
Director: Jan de Bont
Starring: Angelina Jolie, Gerard Butler
Synopsis: Tomb Raider: The Cradle of Life is an action-adventure film featuring Lara Croft’s quest to find a powerful artifact.The film showcases ancient ruins and foreign locations in Greece in several scenes.
Significance: The movie combines action and adventure with the rich historical backdrop of Greece. It introduces viewers to the country’s ancient landmarks through thrilling sequences.
Key Highlights
- Location: Various Greek ruins
- Famous Scenes: The exploration of ancient sites, action scenes
- Cultural Impact: The film presents Greece as a backdrop for high-stakes adventure, enhancing its global appeal.
Zorba the Greek (1964)
Director: Michael Cacoyannis
Starring: Anthony Quinn, Alan Bates
Synopsis: Zorba the Greek is a classic film about a British writer who befriends a Greek man with a passion for life. The film explores themes of freedom, joy, and the zest for life, set against the beautiful landscape of Crete.
Significance: The film is celebrated for its vibrant portrayal of Greek culture and its portrayal of the island of Crete. The character of Zorba is iconic, embodying the spirit of Greek life.
Key Highlights
- Location: Crete, Greece
- Famous Scenes: The dance scenes, local festivities
- Cultural Impact: The film has become a classic representation of Greek culture and has influenced perceptions of Greek life worldwide.
The Two Faces of January (2014)
Director: Hossein Amini
Starring: Viggo Mortensen, Kirsten Dunst
Synopsis: The Two Faces of January is a thriller about a con man, his wife, and an innocent bystander entangled in a web of deceit. The film features scenes set in Greece that contribute to its suspenseful atmosphere.
Significance: The film uses Greece’s scenic beauty to enhance its suspenseful narrative, showcasing the country’s diverse settings from urban to historical.
Key Highlights
- Location: Athens, Greece
- Famous Scenes: The tense chase scenes through the city
- Cultural Impact: The film highlights Greece’s urban landscape and contributes to the thriller genre’s global appeal.
The Bourne Identity (2002)
Director: Doug Liman
Starring: Matt Damon, Franka Potente
Synopsis: The Bourne Identity follows Jason Bourne (Matt Damon) as he uncovers his true identity while being pursued by assassins. The film includes a notable chase scene set in Athens.
Significance: The film’s fast-paced action and high-stakes drama are enhanced by the vibrant setting of Athens, making it a thrilling representation of modern Greek life.
Key Highlights
- Location: Athens, Greece
- Famous Scenes: The action scenes through the city streets
- Cultural Impact: The film presents a contemporary view of Athens, blending action with the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
The Greek Tycoon (1978)
Director: J. Lee Thompson
Starring: Anthony Quinn, Jacqueline Bisset
Synopsis: The Greek Tycoon is inspired by the life of Aristotle Onassis and focuses on the glamorous world of a wealthy Greek shipping magnate. The film explores themes of wealth, power, and romance.
Significance: The film provides insight into the high-society world of Greek tycoons, showcasing Greece’s opulence and influence.
Key Highlights
- Location: Various Greek settings
- Famous Scenes: The luxurious lifestyle and glamorous parties
- Cultural Impact: Offers a glimpse into the world of Greek high society and its impact on global perceptions.
The Island (2005)
Director: Michael Bay
Starring: Ewan McGregor, Scarlett Johansson
Synopsis: The Island features futuristic themes and includes scenes set in Greece. The film follows two people who discover the truth about their existence and their journey to freedom.
Significance: The film uses Greece’s landscapes to enhance its narrative, adding a layer of depth to its futuristic storyline.
Key Highlights
- Location: Various Greek locations
- Famous Scenes: Scenes set against the Greek landscape
- Cultural Impact: Highlights Greece’s versatility as a filming location for diverse genres.
The Last Temptation of Christ (1988)
Director: Martin Scorsese
Starring: Willem Dafoe, Harvey Keitel
Synopsis: The Last Temptation of Christ explores the life of Jesus Christ, with some scenes filmed in Greece. The film delves into religious and philosophical themes, portraying a different perspective on Christ’s life.
Significance: The film’s Greek scenes contribute to its historical and spiritual narrative, providing a unique backdrop for its themes.
Key Highlights
- Location: Various Greek locations
- Famous Scenes: The scenes depicting biblical settings
- Cultural Impact: Provides a profound exploration of religious themes using Greece as a backdrop.
Shirley Valentine
Director: Lewis Gilbert
Starring: Pauline Collins, Tom Conti
“Shirley Valentine” is a charming 1989 film that follows a middle-aged housewife who finds herself longing for a change. The story revolves around Shirley’s journey as she embarks on a spontaneous trip to Greece, discovering a renewed sense of self and adventure. Through her experiences, she learns to embrace her own desires and dreams.
The film blends humor and drama, offering a delightful exploration of self-discovery. It highlights the transformative power of travel and the importance of listening to one’s heart. “Shirley Valentine” remains a heartwarming reminder of the joy that comes from rediscovering oneself.
High Season
Director: Maggie Smith
Starring: Jacqueline Bisset, James Fox
“High Season” is a delightful film set on a Greek island. It paints a vivid picture of Mediterranean life, blending romance with comedy. The story centers on a woman who finds herself entangled in unexpected relationships.
The film’s charm lies in its portrayal of local customs and stunning landscapes. It captures the essence of Greek summer, with its vibrant colors and lively atmosphere. “High Season” offers a refreshing escape into a world of sun, sea, and serendipity.
Summer Lovers
Director: Randal Kleiser
Starring: Daryl Hannah, Peter Gallagher, Valerie Quennessen
*Summer Lovers* is a 1982 film that captures the essence of a carefree Mediterranean summer. The story follows a young American couple who fall for a free-spirited woman while vacationing in Greece. Their romantic escapade unfolds with sun-drenched days and complex emotions, exploring themes of love and freedom.
Set against the stunning backdrop of Santorini, the film highlights the island’s breathtaking beauty and vibrant culture. The chemistry between the characters and the picturesque scenery create a nostalgic and dreamy atmosphere. It’s a captivating watch for anyone who yearns for a touch of romance and adventure.
Opa!
Director: Elina Psykou
Starring: Alexis Georgoulis, Marie-Josée Croze
“Opa!” captures the vibrant spirit of Greek culture in a heartwarming way. This 1988 film follows a Greek-American man who travels to his ancestral village. His journey leads to unexpected adventures and cultural discoveries.
The movie’s charm lies in its portrayal of Greek traditions and family ties. It celebrates the joys of reconnecting with one’s roots. “Opa!” is both a humorous and touching exploration of heritage and belonging.
Conclusion
These 18 movies about Greece offer a rich tapestry of the country’s beauty, history, and culture. From romantic comedies and thrilling action films to profound dramas and classic tales, each movie provides a unique window into the diverse landscapes and experiences Greece has to offer. Watching these films not only provides entertainment but also a deeper appreciation of Greece’s role in global cinema.
Whether you’re planning a trip or simply want to immerse yourself in Greek culture from the comfort of your home, these films set in Greece are sure to captivate and inspire.
Chloe Decker is a skilled writer for History Gaze, passionate about making history engaging and accessible. She brings the past to life with clear, concise narratives that appeal to both history lovers and casual readers. Through her work, Chloe reveals the key events and figures that shaped the world, helping readers connect with history in a meaningful way.
