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The My Big Fat Greek Wedding film series has captured the hearts of audiences for two decades with its humour, heart-warming family dynamics, and portrayal of Greek culture in North America. However, in the third instalment, the Portokalos family embarks on a journey to Greece, the motherland of their beloved recently departed patriarch. The decision to film in Greece not only marked a significant milestone in the franchise but also allowed viewers to immerse themselves in the beautiful Greek landscapes. In this blog, we'll delve into the reasons why these Greek locations are loved and how they contributed to the magic of the film.
Location scouting
The location scouting for My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3 was meticulously thought about and planned. Corfu emerged as the perfect canvas to bring location manager, Giannis Nikoletost vision to life. The island's finesse, along with its astounding natural beauty, made it an ideal setting for the film's narrative. Delving into the heart of the Corfiot countryside revealed a treasure trove of enchanting villages, expansive olive groves, and mountainous landscapes juxtaposed against crystal clear blue beaches. These diverse elements were combined to create the world of the Portokalos family, alongside scenes in Athens, Santorini, and some coastline shots of Crete, Paros and Hydra. However, it was Corfu and its distinctive locations that undeniably set the tone for the film's captivating visuals.
Corfu, a picturesque island in the Ionian Sea, offered a romantic backdrop for the Portokalos family's adventures. Its lush green landscapes, charming villages, and azure waters provided a serene and idyllic setting for the family reunion. Corfu's charm lies in its ability to make you feel like you've stepped into a postcard, making it a perfect location for a heart-warming family story.
Corfu’s beauty has captivated visitors for generations and remains as intoxicating as ever. We offer holidays throughout West Corfu, Southern Corfu, North & North East Corfu.
One of the film's primary locations is Athens. A city where history and modernity coexist harmoniously. The Acropolis, an iconic symbol of ancient Greece, towers over the bustling metropolis, serving as a constant reminder of the country's rich heritage. Filming in Athens allowed the movie to showcase the fusion of traditional Greek values with contemporary life, a central theme in the film.
Athens contains many treasures that really should be seen at least once, and a few nights here can easily be included in our fly-drive or tailor-made holidays. For further inspiration, have a read of our Short Break to Athens itinerary.
Santorini, known for its stunning sunsets and iconic, white-washed buildings with blue domes, is one of Greece's most famous destinations. It's no surprise that the filmmakers chose this island as a location for pivotal scenes. Santorini's dramatic cliffs and clear waters create an atmosphere of beauty and romance.
Santorini offers an array of luxurious 5-star accommodations that attracted the attention of the film's cast and crew. Among these is the illustrious Katikies Hotel. It is a property whose reputation precedes it; renowned for its attentive and personal service, astounding panoramas and high class facilities.
The film also features captivating coastline shots of Crete, Paros, and Hydra. Each of these locations offers a unique charm, from Crete's rugged terrain to Paros's sandy beaches and Hydra's timeless beauty. These coastal scenes added depth to the movie's visual storytelling, showcasing the diversity of Greece's landscapes.
Ultimately, these Greek locations serve as more than just backdrops; they are integral to the film's appeal, making it a cinematic journey that celebrates the beauty and love of Greece – something we know you share. If you want to find the real Greece and follow in the footsteps of the Portokalos family, contact our team on 020 8758 4758.
13th September 2023
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