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Zorba the Greek
Αλέξης Ζορμπάς
1964 142 min Greece, United States of America 16+
★8.1
Drama
Director: Michael Cacoyannis
🎭 Based on
«Zorba the Greek»
byNikos Kazantzakis
Trailers
EN
Teaser
Description
An uptight English writer traveling to Crete on a matter of business finds his life changed forever when he meets the gregarious Alexis Zorba.
Budget:
$783,000
Worldwide:
$9M
Starring
Anthony Quinn
Actor
Alan Bates
Actor
Irene Papas
Actor
Awards
Academy Awards 1965
— Best Supporting Actress
Academy Awards 1965
— Best Production Design (Black and White)
Academy Awards 1965
— Best Cinematography (Black and White)
BAFTA 1966
— United Nations Award
Academy Awards 1965
— Best Director
Golden Globe 1965
— Best Supporting Actress
Academy Awards 1965
— Best Picture
Golden Globe 1965
— Best Actor (Drama)
Academy Awards 1965
— Best Supporting Actress
Academy Awards 1965
— Best Production Design (Black and White)
Golden Globe 1965
— Best Director
BAFTA 1966
— Best International Actor
Academy Awards 1965
— Best Cinematography (Black and White)
Golden Globe 1965
— Best Original Score
BAFTA 1966
— Best Picture
Golden Globe 1965
— Best Picture (Drama)
Key opinion
Zorba the Greek is a celebrated existential drama that masterfully contrasts the reserved intellectualism of an English visitor with the exuberant, life-affirming philosophy of the titular Zorba. Through powerful performances and evocative direction, the film captures the raw spirit of Crete while exploring profound themes of freedom, tragedy, and the joy of existence.
| Acting | Anthony Quinn delivers a definitive, charismatic performance that anchors the film with boundless energy and physical intensity. | |
| Score | Mikis Theodorakis’s iconic musical score serves as a vital emotional heartbeat that defines the film's atmosphere. | |
| Direction | Michael Cacoyannis’s direction successfully elevates a simple narrative into a universal, archetypal exploration of human nature. | |
| Acting | Lila Kedrova’s nuanced, poignant portrayal of Madame Hortense effectively balances the film's broader, high-energy moments. | |
| Emotion | The film’s tone shifts between lighthearted, joyous celebration and dark, violent episodes of communal cruelty, creating a complex emotional experience. |