The Olympia Festival consistently supports Greek film production for children and youth, aiming to strengthen it both by showcasing it within the Festival’s framework and by developing solid growth tools.
As in all national cinemas, childhood is one of the themes explored by Greek filmmakers. However, in many national cinemas, including European ones, the question remains whether this engagement is sufficient to meet the needs of children as an audience. At the same time, children and young people are among the most dynamic audiences for cinema and audiovisual media more broadly, though this does not necessarily mean they are familiar with their national cinema. In Greece, this disconnect is even more pronounced compared to other European countries. The Festival has systematically worked to deepen the connection between children in Greece and Greek cinema. However, for this to happen, Greek films specifically aimed at children must first and foremost be produced.
This year, we are consolidating Greek-interest events with international reach into a single day: Day for Greek films for childrento be held on December 4th. The following activities will take place on this special day:
Final Presentation of the 7th Olympia “Creative Ideas” Pitching LabAn initiative of the Olympia International Film Festival for Children and Young People, this program was established to strengthen the production of children's and youth films in Greece, which currently lags far behind the rest of Europe. This year, the Pitching Lab is being renewed and expanded, gradually becoming part of the “The Olympia Effect” chain. This initiative aims to support all stages of filmmaking, from concept and creation to production, distribution, and festival screenings.
Screenings:"Traces: Toward a Contemporary Greek Cinema for Children"»This year's overview of national productions revealed a pleasant surprise—a significant number of short films (fiction and animation) that, in terms of themes, style, cinematography, and perspective, fit the category of cinema for children and youth. These films are suitable for our festival’s young audience. The inaugural "Traces" program will feature ten Greek short films (fiction and animation), both student and professional productions. All share a common sensitivity in portraying reality through the eyes of children and teenagers.
Awards Announcements and Presentations:
- Olympia “Creative Ideas” Pitching Lab Awards: Two proposals presented during the Pitching Lab will receive awards sponsored by the Greek Film Center and the National Centre of Audiovisual Media and Communication (EKOME) – Creative Greece, as well as ERT SA, each accompanied by a cash prize of €3,000. Additional support includes technical services for the final production phase: Authorwave: Free post-production services (color grading, DCP mastering, deliverables). SteFilm: Color correction, stereo sound mixing, DCP mastering. Massive Productions: 5.1 sound mixing for one film. Neaniko Plano: Assistance with dossier preparation and translation services throughout the production process.
- The international jury for this year’s feature-length fiction films will exceptionally judge the "Traces" program to award the Best Greek Short Film for Children and Youth of 2024. The distinction comes with a €2,000 cash prize, sponsored by ERT SA at the Olympia Festival's proposal. The winning director will also receive a five-year subscription to Crew United, courtesy of the platform.
The Day for Greek Films for Children will welcome representatives of all competing projects, films, supporting institutions, and members of the Greek film community, along with the festival's international guests. Through their participation, international attendees will gain insight into Greek cinema activities and connect with Greek professionals dedicated to producing films for children.
This special day is supported by the Hellas Film division of Creative Greece.
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