Greek Filmmaker's Debut Explores Otherness and Acceptance in Rural Greece

Thessaloniki's film industry arm, Agora, has been a vital platform for filmmakers from Southeastern Europe and beyond. This is evident in the case of Greek filmmaker Thanasis Neofotistos, whose anticipated debut feature "The Boy With the Light-Blue Eyes" is currently in post-production.

The genre-bending coming-of-age story follows teenager Peter as he navigates the suffocating confines of his superstitious and traditional village community. Born with light-blue eyes, which are considered an ill omen by the villagers, Peter is forced to wear a mask by his mother to hide his true nature. However, his world is turned upside down when he embarks on an adventure and learns the unsettling truth about his eyes and the lies he's been told.

Neofotistos, who was born in the mountainous region of Epirus and grew up in a conservative family, drew heavily from his own experiences of struggling with his identity and acceptance. Bullied in high school for being different, the director sought refuge in cinema and literature, ultimately finding his calling as a storyteller.

"The Boy With the Light-Blue Eyes" is a deeply personal project that utilizes folk tradition and magical-realist elements to tell a universal story about diversity and acceptance. The film is a seven-country co-production, showcasing the collaborative spirit fostered by Thessaloniki's industry arm.