JULES DASSIN

Bil’s rating (out of 5):  BBBBB.  Greece/USA, 1960.  Lopert Pictures Corporation, Melinafilm.  Screenplay by Jules Dassin.  Cinematography by Jacques Natteau.  Produced by Jules Dassin.  Music by Manos Hatzidakis.  Production Design by Alekos Tzonis.  Costume Design by Theoni V. Aldredge.  Film Editing by Roger Dwyre.  Academy Awards 1960.  Cannes Film Festival 1960.  Golden Globe Awards 1960.  

Melina Mercouri is brilliant as an independent prostitute in the Greek port of Piraeus who is thrown into a tiff when visiting philosophical tourist (and real-life boyfriend, later husband) Jules Dassin wants to reform her via the intellectual “Aristotelean” aspects of life. Naturally, she tells him to leave her alone, but not before dancing up a storm, singing lots of great songs and making you laugh your head off. Striking photography of the beautiful Greece of the sixties, all around great performances and Manos Hadjidakis’ inspiring score contribute to a very memorable cinematic experience.