Costa Gavras honored at Cannes Film Festival
Acclaimed Greek filmmaker Costa Gavras was honoured at Cannes Film Festival. He received a standing ovation at the official screening of a restored version of his 1969 “Z” at the Cannes Film Festival.
Thierry Frémaux, artistic director of the Cannes Film Festival, praised the work of Gavras for its ability to cross the borders and constitute a carrier for culture messages across Europe.
«What is radical in modern Europe is democracy itself» the famous director said. Alternate Culture Minister Nikos Xydakis, who attended the festival, said that «honoring Costa Gavras is an honor for Greece but also for France and for Europe. This is a praise for a film that is not only a work of art, but forms consciences in European democracies. A cinema that performs a spiritual and educational role and provides entertainment in the ancient sense: it educates responsible and sensitive citizens.»
«There is a need for reinforcing the presence of the Greek cinema and generally of the modern Greek civilization abroad. Through civilization, the real Greece should and must be promoted, besides the stereotypes on which some insist on» noted Gavras.
«Z» will be honoured at Lyon Festival as well.