The third edition of the Evia Film Project opens Tuesday, with a focus on ‘Water’ in all its forms. This year’s festival explores the relationship between humanity and water, from the Aegean Sea to waterfalls, emphasizing our dependence on this vital resource. The choice of ‘Water’ as the theme is deeply rooted in Evia’s recent history. Greece’s second-largest island, Evia suffered devastating wildfires in 2021, consuming 46,000 hectares of forest and farmland in the north. This event highlighted the harsh realities of climate change-induced extreme weather and the catastrophic consequences of water scarcity.
The festival, a collaborative initiative with the Thessaloniki International Film Festival, aims to intertwine the art of cinema with environmental awareness while promoting local development. The 2024 program features a diverse range of films, from Turkish-French drama ‘The Cut’ to the underwater adventures of Jacques Cousteau in ‘Oceans.’ It also includes popular films like ‘The Little Prince’ and Greek productions like ‘The Last Note’ and ‘Underwater Caves,’ showcasing the island’s unique underwater landscapes.
However, the Evia Film Project extends beyond just watching films. The project aims to establish Evia as a global hub for eco-conscious cinema, both for showcasing and producing films. This vision is reflected in the parallel program, which includes masterclasses for filmmakers, a special documentary workshop for women, a guided hike with WWF through wildfire-affected areas, DJ sets, concerts, and gastronomic events promoting sustainability. The festival aims to foster a deeper understanding of the local environment, encourage responsible film production, and inspire environmental action.
