 |
Mihalis KakogiannisGreek Cypriot filmmaker
Date of Birth: 11.06.1922
Country:  Greece |
Content:
- Michael Cacoyannis: A Cinematic Master
- Career in Greece and Hollywood
- Oscar Nominations and Legacy
- Death and Acclaim
Michael Cacoyannis: A Cinematic Master
Early Life and EducationMichael Cacoyannis was born in Limassol, Cyprus, to Panagiotis Loizou Kakogiannis. His father initially sent him to London in 1939 to study law. However, Cacoyannis's passion for theater and cinematography emerged during World War II when he produced Greek-language programs for the BBC World Service.
He enrolled in London's prestigious Old Vic Theater School and performed under the stage name "Michael Yannis." Later, he shifted his focus to filmmaking.
Career in Greece and Hollywood
Unable to find work in the British film industry, Cacoyannis returned to Greece and released his debut film, "Windfall in Athens," in 1953. Despite receiving an offer to direct "Reflections in a Golden Eye" with Elizabeth Taylor and Marlon Brando, he declined.
Cacoyannis established a fruitful collaboration with Greek actress Irene Papas. Together, they worked on several projects, including the acclaimed "The Trojan Women" (1971), which starred Katharine Hepburn.
Oscar Nominations and Legacy
Cacoyannis received an unprecedented five Oscar nominations for "Zorba the Greek" (1964): Best Director, Best Adapted Screenplay, and Best Picture. He also earned a nomination for Best Foreign Language Film for "Electra" (1962) and another nomination for the same category for "Iphigenia" (1977).
Death and Acclaim
Cacoyannis passed away at age 89 in an Athens hospital. His work remains highly celebrated, particularly for its adaptations of classical Greek texts and its exploration of themes of freedom and humanism.
