The main event
It’s giving major main character energy in Greece this November. The 67th Thessaloniki International Film Festival (Nov. 5–15) just dropped the full lineup for their Meet the Neighbors+ and >>Film Forward sections, and the talent is stacked. We’re talking about festival heavyweights and fresh voices looking to secure that Golden Alexander prize.
The lineup that slays
In the Meet the Neighbors+ category, the plot thickens with heavy hitters like Sundance winner Blerta Basholli, who is bringing her Kosovan war drama “Dua.” She’s joined by fellow Sundance favorite Myrsini Aristidou, whose film “Hold Onto Me”—described as a “heartfelt drama” about a girl and her chaotic, long-absent father—is highkey a must-watch. Also in the mix is Pierre Le Gall’s “Flesh and Fuel,” a gay trucker romance that already ate at Zurich, taking home best film.
What’s at stake
This isn't just for the clout. Directors are competing for a €10,000 ($11,240) cash prize for the Golden Alexander and €5,000 ($5,620) for best direction. The jury—made up of Cristina Cassano, Sofia Exarchou, and Anne Østerud—will also be handing out hardware for best actor, actress, and screenplay.
Why it matters
These competition sections are all about spotlighting debut and sophomore directors. The goal is to provide a deeper look at the human condition across our wider regions, proving that indie film is truly the gift that keeps on giving.
