Greece’s Central Archaeological Council (KAS) has denied permission for a key scene in globally aclaimed film director Yorgos Lanthimos’ upcoming film to be shot on the sacred hill of the Acropolis.
The scene in question was meant to be filmed atop the Acropolis, but it required the green light from KAS—something the acclaimed Greek director and his production company, Either Or Productions, ultimately did not receive, even after an appeal.
While the production company has not officially disclosed details, To BHMA has learned that the controversial scene depicts dozens of corpses scattered around the Acropolis, with trained cats weaving among the bodies. The council felt this portrayal clashed with the iconic and symbolic nature of the monument, despite their expressed respect for Lanthimos’ internationally renowned body of work.
The second reason had to do with the necessary closure of the site to the public during filming. The proposal included shutting down part of the Acropolis from 6 a.m. to noon over several days. Council members expressed concern that such closures would cause significant disruption, particularly for tourists arriving in groups who often purchase tickets up to six months in advance.
The council emphasized that the Acropolis, as a global symbol of creativity and life, should remain open to the public and not be closed for filming, especially during peak visitor hours.
Lanthimos is currently working on an English-language remake of the 2003 South Korean sci-fi comedy Save the Green Planet. Titled Bugonia, the film stars Emma Stone, Jesse Plemons, and Alicia Silverstone, with a screenplay by Will Tracy. Filming began in July 2024 in the UK, with some scenes already shot in Atlanta. The U.S. release is scheduled for November 7, 2025
