Recent images of actor Anthimos Ananiadis filming at the Acropolis for his upcoming movie The Greek Job have ignited debate and inquiries, especially in light of the fact that renowned director Yorgos Lanthimos was recently denied permission to shoot at the same site. Many have questioned, “Why was Lanthimos turned away while Ananiadis received approval?” This query is particularly pertinent given the differing levels of recognition between the two directors.
As reported by protothema.gr, the Ephorate of Antiquities for the City of Athens granted filming permission for May 19, during regular visiting hours. Photos from the shoot reveal that visitors were present at the site during the filming.
The Ephorate evaluated the script, which is reportedly inspired by the Greek War of Independence, and found it acceptable, ultimately issuing permission in exchange for a standard fee.
Why Lanthimos Was Denied
In contrast, Yorgos Lanthimos’ film Bugonia faced a different outcome. His request was forwarded to the Central Archaeological Council (KAS), raising concerns about the script and filming techniques. KAS ultimately rejected the application, citing that “the proposed scenes for filming at the monumental site are not compatible with the symbolism and values represented by the Acropolis—and particularly the Parthenon—as a universal heritage monument.”
The Greek Job – A Star-Studded Cast with Music by Mikis Theodorakis
The Greek Job is a major project that Ananiadis has been developing for several years. Filming commenced in 2019 across various locations, from Mount Lycabettus to Mount Athos, with plans to release the film by late 2021. However, delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic and other challenges pushed the timeline back. The first teaser was unveiled on Greece’s national holiday in 2021.
Ananiadis both directs and stars in the film, alongside his late stepfather, Kostas Voutsas, in his final role. The cast also features prominent actors, including American Eric Roberts (brother of Julia Roberts), Greek-Australian Costas Mandylor, Italian-American Rico Simonini, as well as Maria Korinthiou, Michalis Markatis, Iphigenia Makri, and Vaggelis Mourikis.
The film’s score also features music by the renowned Mikis Theodorakis. Prior to his passing, Theodorakis approved the use of his composition Dromoi Palioi (“Old Roads”) in a modern arrangement. Ananiadis received his blessing for the project during a visit to the composer’s home in 2019.
A Political Mystery Adventure
The Greek Job is a historical mystery-action noir set in modern Greece. It illustrates the enduring fight for freedom and independence by the descendants of the 1821 revolutionaries, who continue to safeguard national sovereignty amid ongoing conspiracies. The film emphasizes that, despite evolving tools and strategies, the spirit of Greek resistance remains unwavering.
The narrative follows Yiannis Grigoriadis, a fugitive who seeks refuge on Mount Athos after a police raid on the revolutionary group “Phoenix.” For a decade, he dedicates himself to spiritual pursuits—until a visitor to the monastery brings back memories of the political and criminal realities in contemporary Greece.
Upon the teaser’s release in 2021, Ananiadis expressed:
“History is crafted by circles of friends and revolutions—those small, daily resurrections we all undergo. This divine adventure of The Greek Job began through the ‘Old Roads’ of Grandpa Mikis and Master Kostas Voutsas. This ‘Society of Friends’ resurrects from the ashes of its generation… a hidden cinematic school that united us into a borderless family, tracing the paths of the oldest stories throughout this land… This teaser for The Greek Job is for all of us—today’s heroes of ’21.”
An International Co-Production
The Greek Job is a collaborative effort between Ananiadis’ AA PRODUCTIONS and Olive Branch Media, led by producer George Zakk (known for works like Fast and Furious, xXx, The Pacifier, Chronicles of Riddick), with international producer Andreas Kontogouris also involved.
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