Nikos Koundouros, a celebrated Greek filmmaker, entered the world on December 15, 1926, in the picturesque town of Agios Nikolaos, located on the enchanting island of Crete. This talented individual embarked on an artistic odyssey by enrolling in the esteemed Athens School of Fine Arts, where he honed his skills in painting and sculpture. Nevertheless, his life underwent a profound transformation during World War II, when he joined the left-wing resistance movement known as EAM-ELAS. As a result of his courageous actions, he was subsequently exiled to the notorious Makronissos prison island, a testament to his unwavering commitment to the cause.
As Koundouros stepped out of the confines of his confinement, he made the deliberate decision to dedicate himself to the craft of cinematography at the tender age of twenty-eight. This marked the beginning of his directorial odyssey, which would ultimately culminate in the creation of his groundbreaking film, Magiki Polis, in the year 1954.
Koundouros' pioneering filmmaking techniques garnered him widespread acclaim, particularly with his intricate and trailblazing cinematic masterpiece O Drakos, which garnered numerous accolades at prestigious international and Greek film festivals, thereby cementing his status as a preeminent artistic figure in Greece and Europe.
His 1963 cinematic triumph, Young Aphrodites, was a resounding success, claiming the esteemed Silver Bear for Best Director at the 13th Berlin International Film Festival, a testament to his exceptional skill and artistry.
The remarkable career of Koundouros, marked by a relentless pursuit of innovation and a willingness to defy the status quo, has left an indelible mark on the cinematic landscape. A milestone in his illustrious journey was his esteemed invitation to serve as a member of the esteemed jury at the 14th Moscow International Film Festival in 1985, a testament to his profound and lasting impact on the world of cinema.
