Amalia Giannikou writes
Athens, June 27, 2024
09:00 One by one, the members of the Greek jury declare their “present” in a central hotel in Athens, and it looks like an orderly for filming. An unusual shooting, of course, with 7 screenwriters/directors (Christos Dimas, Fofi Kotti, Alexandros Pantazoudis, Giorgos Fiidas, Renos Charalambidis, Panagiotis Christopoulos, and the undersigned), 4 actors (Ioanna Asimakopoulou, Maria Konstantaki, Panos Mouzourakis, Zisis Roumbos) , a casting director (Makis Gazis), a producer (Nataly Doukas/Tanweer) and a strategic analysis and content manager (Faie Tsitsipi/Cosmote TV). All of them, accomplished artists and professionals that I admire.
10:00 The head of the Academy, Nathaniel Brendel, explains to us the process and the regulation: the Greek committee is invited to highlight the best comedy for one of four geographical sections (except Europe, to which we belong) which will remain secret until the final of the New York, in the fall.
The signatory, at the same “desk” as Fai Tsitsipi
6 series from 4 countries
10:30 The screening begins with a highly educational dive into how different cultures manage comedy. We’re watching one episode of each series – chosen by the production company – which, unfortunately, I can’t reveal details regarding. To give a small taste, however, I will say that the six samples surprised us both in terms of content (e.g., one series focused on mental health) and structure (three series were between 1-1.5 hour!) Definitely something different and interesting in itself.
13:00 Lunch break on the hotel roof. At that time we dream of two things: an ice cold beer, and to talk to each other regarding what we saw. Our sweet “Cerber” Nathaniel, however, has warned us that it is not allowed, and “threatens” us with Google Translate.
Thus, we are content with theoretical discussions regarding comedy, and Renos Charalambidis has a lot – and rightly so – to say. What makes something comical? How can a scene be shot as “slapstick” ( = physical comedy)? Why have many comedies turned into “dramedy” ( = drama with comedic elements or comedy with dramatic elements)? All this with lots of laughs and, yes: a cold beer.
14:30 The screening continues, with coffee and dessert. I realize that Zisis Roubos and Panos Mouzourakis are sitting across from me and “play” what they see on their faces. I avoid looking at them because I get a nervous laugh.
18:00 Viewing completes. We talk to journalists, pose for photos, laugh our hearts out: we are a special, transcendent comedy in our own right.
Nathaniel Brendel, Christina Mitropoulou and Haris Doukas
Finale with the Acropolis in the background
20:30 The Mayor of Athens, Haris Doukas, and Christina Mitropoulou of the Athens Film Office, the brains behind the Semi-Finals in Athens, welcome us to the roof of the City Hall. There we also meet other distinguished colleagues from the artistic field. Hugs, kisses, professional news… We will spend the next few hours with cocktails, bao ban, and the feeling that Athens has, and deserves to have, a voice and presence in the world of television.
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