O Maestro e o Mar

Finally, the Greek television comes back with a high quality series; on direction, cinematography, script and music. Beautiful scenery in the islands of Paxoi and Corfu, fantastic music in the background and well thought-through dialogue depicting the, unfortunately, hard-to-face truth about remote Greek communities.

The series will offer an opportunity through Netflix for people abroad to watch outstanding Greek actors, such as Kavogianni, Mouratidis and Tsortekis, as well as musician Alexiou. Papakaliatis invites dialogue on deeply rooted patriarchy, domestic abuse, homophobia and political agendas. However, also highlights the beauty of the Greek culture; the generosity, community, cultural appreciation and history, strong family unity and what is widely known as "filotimo".

Overall, the show is at a similar level of production as series that come from other countries. It is worth your attention and I highly recommend. On a plus side, it will probably convince you - if you are still considering - to visit Greece.

Powerful! That's the only word that comes to mind when thinking about this show. Mainly known for their cuisine, and the beauty of their country, here the Greeks have, unlike what the large majority might expect, hit hard with this incredible piece of art. Their entry on the largest streaming platform in the world certainly did not go by unoticed nor dissapoint as the series easily found its way to the top 10 list for tv shows in many countries around the globe. The production designer of this series should definitely be applauded for the selection of the many sets, and locations, all of which were breathtakingly outstanding. Also, the actors knew exactly what they were doing when came the time to perform. They may be unknown for the large majority of us, but that did not prevent them from shining to the best of their ability for the whole planet to see. Additionally, knowing that this show told the story of a musician, I was not expecting anything less from the soundtrack. Saying that the composers nailed it in that area would be a understatement. So go ahead, watch it, watch it, watch it, for the actors who played wonderfully, for the plot that grips you from start to finish, as well as for the lanscapes that showcase Greece's natural appeal. You will not be deceived.

Unlike Papakaliatis early works, Maestro is a true gem. Without a doubt he has come a long way and has made great progress in film making. Above all, Maestro is a very good story told by real people who face every day problems and try to cope with them. Very important issues are raised such as domestic violence, racism and family matters that everyone could relate to, more or less. Moreover, the direction and cinematography of the series are brilliant. Another very big plus is the selection of music, which if i'm not mistaken is again Papakaliatis' job. In conclusion, i find Maestro to be one of the best greek tv series i've ever watched (well still do) and is the only one that makes me get emotional. Can't wait for the next episode and why not for a next season. So glad that it is airing soon on Netflix and it is going international. Cheers to the next one Christopher!

I could not be more excited to have a Greek made and themed show. This is a well made and well acted drama about a mysterious musical director who comes to a small island in Greece to prepare a summer music festival. The characters are complex and interesting and they're acted with depth. The series is beautifully shot, and as it is in Greece it is visually stunning. In proceeding I was concerned that I might be disappointed by the show letting me down, but just the opposite. This show kept me riveted and titillated from the first moment to last. It is not what I expected and it is crazy at times. It is brilliantly edited and the story told from the perspective of multiple key characters. I watched it in greek, but it is available in dubbed formatted as well. Keep these Greek shows coming.

This debut of a Greek production on Netflix is remarkable. It has all the ingredients that make for a great cinematic experience: diverse themes that affect ordinary people, titillating music, engaging dialogue (terse but thoughtful, sometimes witty and wise) and creative use of foreboding.

The viewer is able to relate to each of the major characters. Episodes are devoted to a major character. Orestis, Haris, Sofia, Fanis, Maria, Michalis and Haralambos come to life. Thus, the viewer knows how he/she develops. Compelling drama then ensues as the characters interact.

The settings help in making a heart-rending story: the idyllic Greek islands of Paxos and Corfu on the Ionian Sea.

Haris Alexiou, Maris Kavoyianni, Marisha Triantafyllidou, Christopher Papakaliatis, and the young actors Khelia Andriolatou and Orestis Chalkias deserve our ovation.

Now that Greek cinema has caught the attention of Netflix, do we expect more of the same quality Greek films from this video streaming leader? Parakalos.