Zorba the Greek (1964)

When he hires an eccentric stranger named Zorba to work in a mine he has inherited on Crete, Basil, a timid English writer (Alan Bates), finds himself drawn into a world far more exciting and dangerous than any he has known.

Zorba courts too many women, endures perils in the mine that scare off the other workers, and defies a group of men seeking vengeance on a young widow who has rejected their advances. Eventually, Zorba's undying exuberance forces Basil to undergo a transformation into becoming a more active participant in his own life.

Brimming with "inspired acting, perfect direction, artful photography" (Cleveland Press) Zorba The Greek is arguably one of the most passionate studies of human nature ever put to film.
 


Editor's Note

Basil, a young English writer of Greek ancestry, meets an older, free-spirited Greek peasant named Zorba (Anthony Quinn) on the island of Crete. While Zorba pursues a relationship with Madame Hortense, an aging French courtesan, the inhibited Basil summons up the courage to court a young widow. The young, unhappy Englishman finds himself learning valuable life lessons from Zorba, the earthy peasant who has a zeal for everything he does. Nominated for seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actor (Quinn) and winner of three, including Best Supporting Actress (Lila Kedrova).