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Yorgos Lanthimos Explores Photography Ahead of Oscar Return
3/7/2026, 3:49:52 AM
Artistic Shift: Photography Exhibition in Athens
Oscar-nominated filmmaker Yorgos Lanthimos has temporarily paused his filmmaking activities to focus on a personal creative endeavor: photography. This week, he inaugurated an exhibition in his hometown of Athens, showcasing 182 photographs he has taken over the past five years. The images, which include both color and black-and-white photographs, were captured during various moments, including film sets, neighborhood strolls, and trips back to Greece. The exhibition opens just days before Lanthimos returns to Hollywood for the Academy Awards on March 15, where his latest film, "Bugonia," has received four nominations, including Best Picture and Best Actress for Emma Stone.
The Intersection of Film and Photography
Lanthimos, known for his distinctive and often unsettling cinematic style, expressed that photography began as a technical foundation for his filmmaking but has evolved into a more personal outlet. He remarked, “In film school you learn that cinema is basically 24 photographs per second. So photography is where it all begins.” This perspective highlights the intrinsic connection between the two art forms, emphasizing how still images can serve as a creative outlet separate from the complexities of film production.
The filmmaker noted the immediacy that photography offers, stating, “You create something and almost immediately it exists.” This direct satisfaction of capturing and developing images in a darkroom contrasts with the lengthy process of filmmaking. Lanthimos appreciates that photographs can evolve long after they are taken, allowing for various presentations, such as exhibitions or books.
Official Statements & Responses
Lanthimos articulated his excitement about the freedom that photography provides, saying, “There’s a freedom in photography that is very exciting.” He indicated that photography will increasingly play a role in his creative life, suggesting a potential shift in focus alongside his film projects.
Exhibition Details
The photography exhibition is hosted at the Onassis Foundation and will run until May 17. It features several portraits of Emma Stone, a frequent collaborator, further intertwining his cinematic and photographic endeavors.
Criticism & Opposition
While the exhibition has been well-received, some critics may question the shift in focus from filmmaking to photography, particularly given Lanthimos's established reputation in cinema. However, the director's exploration of photography may also be seen as a natural evolution of his artistic expression.
What's Next
As Lanthimos prepares for the Academy Awards, the intersection of his film and photography careers will likely continue to garner attention, potentially influencing his future projects in both mediums.
