How Thessaloniki’s “Greek DNA” Fuels Filmmakers

Thessaloniki, Greece’s vibrant second city, has long been a cultural crossroads, and its film industry arm, Agora, stands as a testament to this legacy. Far more than just a market event, the Agora of the Thessaloniki Film Festival has cultivated a unique identity, rooted in what can be described as its ‘Greek DNA.’ This inherent character, particularly the profound spirit of philoxenia, has been instrumental in solidifying its position as a vital platform for filmmakers not only from Southeastern Europe but also from a broader international landscape.

Having recently marked its 20th anniversary, Agora continues to evolve, balancing tradition with innovation to support a dynamic and often challenging audiovisual community. Its approach ensures that it remains an essential hub for cinematic development, co-production, and networking, deeply connected to its Hellenic roots while looking towards the future of global cinema.

The Enduring Spirit of Philoxenia

At the very heart of Thessaloniki’s industry arm lies the essence of philoxenia, a concept that transcends simple hospitality. This Greek word embodies a spirit of generosity, openness, and empathy towards guests, considered a fundamental cultural and moral duty. Angeliki Vergou, the industry head, emphasizes that this distinctive approach is embedded in Agora’s and the Thessaloniki International Film Festival’s very DNA, setting it apart from other industry events.

This deep-seated commitment to making guests feel welcome and supported fosters a unique environment where genuine connections can flourish. It’s this human-centric philosophy that encourages collaboration and a sense of community, proving to be a powerful magnet for filmmakers seeking not just business opportunities but also a supportive creative home.

Adapting to a Changing Industry Landscape

While upholding its core values, Agora also acknowledges the shifting realities of the contemporary film industry. Industry head Angeliki Vergou, a veteran of Agora, recognizes that staying relevant demands an understanding of current challenges. Funding sources are being discontinued in Europe, distribution channels are contracting, and decision-makers’ attention is increasingly fragmented.

Rather than viewing these as insurmountable obstacles, Agora sees them as opportunities for visionary leadership, experimentation, and meaningful change. This forward-thinking perspective ensures that the platform not only reacts to industry shifts but actively seeks innovative solutions, maintaining its crucial role in nurturing cinematic projects.

Broadening Horizons: Regional and International Initiatives

Though Agora’s long-standing primary goal has been the support of the Greek and regional film industry, it has consistently broadened its geographical footprint. Initiatives like “Bridge to the North” exemplify this expansion, annually welcoming a delegation from Nordic or Baltic countries to foster new synergies in Thessaloniki. This year, Finland is set to be the guest country.

Furthermore, the Agora Series strand, a dedicated forum for TV and streaming production, continues to develop. This two-day event introduces initiatives like Agora Series Talents, offering Greek screenwriters workshops, one-on-one meetings, and formal introductions to the international industry. Highlights have included masterclasses with renowned filmmakers such as Italian director Saverio Costanzo, known for HBO and RAI’s “My Brilliant Friend” adaptation, and case studies on anticipated drama series like “The Great Chimera,” produced by Athens-based Foss Productions in co-production with Beta Film and Greek public broadcaster ERT.

Nurturing Talent: From Script to Screen

Agora serves as a pivotal platform for filmmakers from Southeastern Europe and beyond, offering essential support through programs like the Crossroads Co-Production Forum and Agora Works in Progress. These initiatives have played a significant role in boosting projects that have gone on to achieve international recognition. For instance, past projects include Stephan Komandarev’s Karlovy Vary winner “Blaga’s Lessons,” Amjad Al Rasheed’s Cannes Critics’ Week selection “Inshallah a Boy,” and Estibaliz Urresola Solaguren’s Berlin competition entry “20,000 Species of Bees.”

The Co-Production Forum, running from November 2-6, features 14 projects from 16 countries, including “The Leaves Hang Trembling” by Serbian director Stefan Djordjević, “The Life and Times of Ion G.” from Romania’s Andreea Cristina Bortun, and “Quiet Lake” by acclaimed Bulgarian documentary filmmaker Tonislav Hristov. The Agora Works in Progress program showcases eight films in post-production from Southeastern Europe and the Mediterranean region. This year’s lineup includes “Black Money for White Nights” by Kristina Grozeva and Petar Valchanov, “The Boy With the Light-Blue Eyes” by Greece’s Thanasis Neofotistos, and “The Lion at My Back” from Cypriot filmmaker Tonia Mishiali. Agora consistently seeks projects with international appeal and artistic integrity, capable of finding their place in a competitive market.

Prioritizing Well-being in the Industry

Beyond traditional market activities, Agora also demonstrates its commitment to the holistic well-being of industry professionals. Recognizing the immense toll that working in the film industry can have on mental, physical, and emotional health, initiatives like the “Decompression Room” have been introduced.

First launched at the Thessaloniki Documentary Festival, this space offers a quiet retreat where individuals can relax, gather their thoughts, and re-energize between meetings, workshops, and pitches. The integration of experts from diverse fields, such as holistic therapy, helps destigmatize the need for support within the audiovisual community, reflecting Agora’s understanding that fostering a healthy environment is crucial for sustained creativity and collaboration.

A Platform for Distinctive Voices and Future Visions

As the Agora team looks ahead, its aspirations are firmly rooted in deepening the values that have defined it, while continuously adapting to serve an evolving industry. The vision for Agora is to be a space for new models of collaboration, where the spirit of philoxenia extends beyond mere hospitality to genuine partnership and co-creation across borders and disciplines.

The aim is to continue championing the voices of filmmakers from Greece, Southeastern Europe, the Mediterranean, and beyond—stories that might otherwise struggle to find platforms in an increasingly risk-averse marketplace. In an era of industry consolidation, regional markets like Agora become even more vital. They provide spaces where distinctive, authentic voices can connect with champions and partners, ensuring that cinema remains diverse and vibrant. Ultimately, Agora strives to be a place where professionals not only conduct business but also build community, find creative homes, and leave feeling energized about the future of cinema, maintaining human connection at its core for decades to come.