We are also proud to partner with the Michael Cacoyannis Foundation in honoring Hydra’s rich cinematic heritage. While the Hollywood production Boy on a Dolphin (1957) brought international attention to the island, Hydra’s cultural identity was also shaped by earlier works - most notably Girl in Black (1956), the only film Greek director Michael Cacoyannis ever shot on the island. As the first Greek filmmaker to achieve international renown, Cacoyannis played a pivotal role in bringing Greek cinema to the world stage.

To celebrate his legacy, ArtCinema Hydra will present two special screenings and events dedicated to Girl in Black and Electra, highlighting Cacoyannis’ groundbreaking artistry and his celebrated collaborations with composer Mikis Theodorakis - to whom the Ministry of Culture has dedicated 2025. Theodorakis, who also scored Electra and Zorba the Greek, as well as Phaedra (partially filmed on Hydra and starring Melina Mercouri), remains a towering figure in Greek cultural history. His international acclaim included the score for the Hollywood classic Serpico. Al Pacino, star of Serpico, paid tribute to the late composer, saying: “We will miss him, and we will remember him.”