Summer weather brings warm summer evenings, with starry skies and open-air cinemas to complete the picture.
TO BHMA International Edition has scoured this week’s screenings in Athens, at some of the most beloved outdoor theaters. Here are a few movies that are worth catching these coming days!
Aigli Zappeiou (ΑΙΓΛΗ CINEMA) at Zappeion
Why here?
Nestled between the flora of the National Garden, Aigli is one of the oldest cinemas in Athens. The historic open-air experience was established in 1910 and has previously hosted several film festivals as well as movie-themed events.
Your movie snack options at Aigli are extensive, with both the classics (popcorn, nachos, chips etc.) and deep-dish pizzas. Their bottled cocktails are also worth trying, prepared by select local cocktail bars in the city.
What’s playing?
Toy Story 5 (screens all week) — Directed by Andrew Stanton. When technology enters the picture, Woody, Buzz, Jessie and their fellow toys find themselves facing an unexpected rival for children’s attention, forcing them to rethink their place in playtime.
Obsession (screens all week) — Directed by Curry Barker. A shy young man’s attempt to win over the woman he loves using the mysterious “One Wish Willow” appears to work at first, but his dream quickly spirals into a disturbing nightmare with dangerous consequences.
Coming next week: Amelie (29/06 until 1/07, 11:10 p.m.) — Directed by Jean-Pierre Jeunet. Living largely in a world of her own imagination, Amélie dedicates herself to improving the lives of those around her, only to discover that happiness—and love—may be waiting for her as well.
Cine Dexameni at Dexameni Square
Why here?
Dexameni (Greek word for cistern) supplied Athens with water until the mid 20th century. The now-famous Dexameni cinema is situated in one of the most islandic squares of the otherwise grey city, with Dexameni café also being a popular coffee and drinks destination.
What’s playing?
Pressure (screens all week at 8:50 p.m.) — Directed by Anthony Maras. As the clock ticks down to D-Day, General Dwight D. Eisenhower and meteorologist Captain James Stagg must make a pivotal decision that could alter the course of World War II.
L’ Étranger (screens all week at 11:00 p.m.) — Directed by François Ozon. Set in French Algeria during the 1930s, this adaptation of Albert Camus’ classic novel follows a detached civil servant whose life is irrevocably changed by personal loss and a violent incident under the blazing Mediterranean sun.
Coming soon: The Invitation — Directed by Olivia Wilde. What begins as a seemingly ordinary dinner between two couples gradually unravels into an evening of uncomfortable truths, unexpected revelations and shifting relationships.
Cine Paris in Plaka
Why here?
The iconic cinema with a scenic view of the Acropolis needs no introduction. Having earned the number one spot as the World’s Best Open-Air Cinema, a movie night at Cine Paris is a must for anyone visiting Athens this summer.
Tickets are a bit pricier than most run-of-the-mill cinemas, but the experience is well worth it.
What’s playing?
Pressure (screens all week at 8:45 p.m.) — Directed by Anthony Maras. As the clock ticks down to D-Day, General Dwight D. Eisenhower and meteorologist Captain James Stagg must make a pivotal decision that could alter the course of World War II.
Amelie (screens all week at 11:20 p.m.) — Directed by Jean-Pierre Jeunet. Living largely in a world of her own imagination, Amélie dedicates herself to improving the lives of those around her, only to discover that happiness—and love—may be waiting for her as well.
Coming next week: In The Mood For Love (29/06 and 30/06 at 11:20 p.m.) — Directed by Wong Kar-wai.After suspecting that their spouses are having an affair, two neighbors develop a deep emotional connection while trying not to repeat the same betrayal themselves.
Cine Flisvos in Palaio Faliro
Why here?
For those seeking an outdoor cinema experience coast-side, the newest addition to the open-air entertainment scene is perfect.
A mere 15-minute drive away from the city center, the capacious venue fits 500 people. Arguably, Cine Flisvos has the best movie snack selection with the star of the show being meat skewers (otherwise known as kalamakia).
What’s playing?
Toy Story 5 (screens all week) — Directed by Andrew Stanton. When technology enters the picture, Woody, Buzz, Jessie and their fellow toys find themselves facing an unexpected rival for children’s attention, forcing them to rethink their place in playtime.
Obsession (screens all week) — Directed by Curry Barker. A shy young man’s attempt to win over the woman he loves using the mysterious “One Wish Willow” appears to work at first, but his dream quickly spirals into a disturbing nightmare with dangerous consequences.
Zefyros in Petralona
Why here?
This open-air cinema mostly screens documentaries, independent films and all-time classics. Featuring bohemian flair and the neighborhood cats roaming around, Zefyros blends right into the vintage feel of the area of Petralona.
Note that foreign films only feature Greek subtitles, so make sure to double-check the original language of the film that is screening.
What’s playing?
Psycho 1960, Digital Re-edition (this weekend at 9:00 p.m.) — Directed by Alfred Hitchcock. Fleeing after stealing a large sum of money, a young woman checks into an isolated roadside motel, where she encounters its troubled owner and a mystery that turns increasingly sinister.
Investigation of a Citizen Above Suspicion 1970, Digital Re-edition (this weekend at 11:00 p.m.) — Directed by Elio Petri. After murdering his lover, a powerful police official deliberately leaves evidence behind, convinced that his status places him beyond the reach of justice.
Vox in Central Athens
Why here?
Continuing down the niche film rabbit hole, Vox Cinema in Exarcheia also screens more unusual independent projects.
Vox’s terrace overlooks the hustle and bustle of Athens’ busy streets, with all the classic movie snacks and soft drinks to choose from.
What’s playing?
Psycho 1960, Digital Re-edition (screens all week at 11:10 p.m.) — Directed by Alfred Hitchcock. Fleeing after stealing a large sum of money, a young woman checks into an isolated roadside motel, where she encounters its troubled owner and a mystery that turns increasingly sinister.
L’ Étranger (screens all week at 08:50 p.m.) — Directed by François Ozon. Set in French Algeria during the 1930s, this adaptation of Albert Camus’ classic novel follows a detached civil servant whose life is irrevocably changed by personal loss and a violent incident under the blazing Mediterranean sun.
Coming next week: Backrooms (29/06 until 01/07 at 11:10 p.m.) — Directed by Kane Parsons. When one of her patients vanishes into a strange realm beyond ordinary reality, a therapist embarks on a perilous journey into the unknown to bring him back.
Riviera in Central Athens
Why here?
This emblematic open-air cinema was created after a fire on Valtetsiou Street left a vacant plot of land in its wake. Theodoros Riggas took on the task of bringing life back on the charred grounds by creating Riviera.
Screenings range from indie flicks to contemporary Greek productions—with subtitles available.
What’s playing?
Amelie (screens all week at 08:50 p.m.) — Directed by Jean-Pierre Jeunet. Living largely in a world of her own imagination, Amélie dedicates herself to improving the lives of those around her, only to discover that happiness—and love—may be waiting for her as well.
Bearcave (screens all week at 11:50 p.m.) — Directed by Stergios Dinopoulos and Krysianna Papadaki. A magical cave, a memorable meal and an act of betrayal set two lifelong friends on an emotional and unexpected romantic adventure.
