Award-winning Greek filmmaker Yorgos Lanthimos has strongly criticized recent media coverage surrounding the rejection of his request to film scenes for his upcoming movie "Bugonia" at the Acropolis, calling the reports inaccurate and damaging.
In a statement through his attorney Elli Filippopoulou, Mr. Lanthimos and the film’s production companies, Element Pictures BG Limited and Either Or Productions, denounced what they called "false and misleading publications" that have "harmed his professional standing."
The legal notice asserts that media outlets inaccurately portrayed the reasons behind the Culture Ministry’s advisory body denying the filming permit.
Specifically, the statement refutes claims that Mr. Lanthimos and his team sought exclusive access to the site for four days or requested to film without paying the required fees.
The legal team described these allegations as completely untrue and defamatory.
Mr. Lanthimos, known for films such as "The Favourite" and "Poor Things," emphasized his deep connection to Greece and his commitment to adhering to legal and procedural requirements for filming in archaeological sites. The statement said the filmmakers submitted their application in a timely and lawful manner.
The legal announcement demands the immediate retraction of all inaccurate and damaging reports, with the retractions given equal prominence to the original coverage.
It also calls on media outlets to refrain from further spreading false claims, warning that the team reserves the right to seek compensation for defamation and damage to their reputation.
The Greek Central Archaeological Council (KAS) recently issued a negative opinion on the filmmakers’ application to use the Acropolis, prompting widespread media commentary.
Mr. Lanthimos’ team contends that unauthorized disclosures and factual errors have distorted the reporting on the decision.
The controversy highlights growing tensions between the creative community and Greek cultural authorities over access to national heritage sites for film productions.