EL GRECO

The international epic production between England, Spain, Italy, and Greece -filming is scheduled to begin in autumn- presents the important Greek artist who left his mark on the history of world painting as its subject.

After a preparation period of five years, director Giannis Smaragdis and renowned Greek composer Vangelis Papathanassiou -creators of the film Kavafy, which has so far gained distinctions in 55 international festivals- will be in partnership again on this gigantic production.The epic production EL GRECO brings director Giannis Smaragdis' vision to life and also fulfills one of Modern Greece’s cultural aspirations: to collaborate artistically with other European film centers and present the country’s latest achievements in the field of artistic creation, building on its ecumenical tradition while aiming at an international audience.

The life and work of the painter, who, during his lifetime (16^th -17^th century), sought freedom of expression through his creations and altered the way in which the canvas was depicted, will be transported to the silver screen (under the auspices of El Greco Films Ltd.) following the cooperation between four countries: England, Spain, Italy, and Greece.These four countries will each provide part of the funding, but the major part of the budget will be covered by private investments.In Greece, the chief producer will be Dionisis Samiotis (Politiki Kouzina), while the Greek Film Centre, ERT SA, Alexandros Film PLC, and Manos Krezias with the distribution company ODEON, will also participate.