On Sunday, MEGA will bring two fictional masterpieces to the small screen, based on true events. At 21:00 the third and final cycle of the successful production “Famagusta” returns. Immediately after, at 22:50, the sensational series directed by Sotiris Tsafoulias, “17 Threads“, premieres.
“Famagusta”
What will we see in the first episode of its third cycle?
November 1974 and Makarios addresses the Greek people with his flagship sermon that will remain in history forever. In the present day, Pavlos, Marianna and Daphne discover that Michael is his lost brother. Cleanthes, despite his initial resistance, again testifies in court in favor of Theodoris.
At the Sekeris family home, saddened by the revelation, Michael tells the story of his life as he knew it until now, revealing that his stepmother knew the truth from the beginning.
As his research for the documentary continues, this time he records the testimony of two brothers, who suffered terrible torture in their childhood by Turkish soldiers and luckily managed to survive.
Dafni and Tevkros, more in love than ever, are preparing for their wedding. Thodoris is released due to suspicion in court, a decision that causes reactions. Simoni, who is in Cyprus for the trial, learns from the television that her husband’s NGO is involved in a huge financial scandal. Christina dies on Pavlos on the kitchen floor…
“17 Threads”
What will we see in the first episode?
The thread of the disturbing story “17 Threads” unfolds in the dark cell, where Castellanis (Panos Vlachos) is serving his sentence. The image of the troubled man with the long hair and beard is not like the young man, who was loved by everyone in his country a few years ago. The guard informs him that he has been chosen as the executioner and asks him to follow him.
The prison door opens and takes us… to Kythira, when Kastelanis was a nobleman of about 25 years old. He is a talented shoemaker and lyre player, known throughout the island.
At the wedding of Anthis and Vretos, where he plays the lyre, he meets Anna (Denia Stasinopoulou) and they fall in love. His good character and professional development make him a good groom for the beautiful Anna.
The two become engaged, but their happiness is violently interrupted when Castellanis is wrongly accused by a prominent man from the island, George Scaleris (Kostas Filippoglou), of attempting to rape his wife, Azoletas (Alkistis Poulopoulou). .
Interview: Exploring the Stories Behind the Screen with Sotiris Tsafoulias
Time.news Editor (T.N.): Good evening, everyone! Tonight, we’re diving into two groundbreaking productions airing on MEGA this Sunday. Joining me is the talented director of “17 Threads,” Sotiris Tsafoulias. Thank you for being here, Sotiris!
Sotiris Tsafoulias (S.T.): Thank you for having me! I’m excited to share more about our upcoming series.
T.N.: Let’s start with the returning series “Famagusta.” The anticipation has been palpable for its third cycle. What can viewers expect in the premiere episode?
S.T.: The first episode is pivotal, as it sets the tone for the entire cycle. We flash back to November 1974, where we witness Makarios delivering a sermon that marks a significant moment in history. In the present, we’ll see the entwined fates of our main characters—Pavlos, Marianna, and Daphne—as they uncover the truth about Michael’s lost brother.
T.N.: That sounds intense! The revelation of Michael’s identity must lead to a lot of emotional tension. How do you approach such complex narratives?
S.T.: The key is to remain authentic to the emotional experiences of the characters. We delve into their histories and present situations, drawing the audience in with powerful storytelling. Michael’s story, intertwined with the backdrop of political strife, offers a deeply personal look at the impact of historical events on individual lives.
T.N.: Well said! Now, moving on to “17 Threads,” which you directed. It premieres right after “Famagusta.” What should viewers look forward to in this series?
S.T.: “17 Threads” explores the harrowing experiences of individuals who have faced unimaginable trauma. The narrative follows the journey of two brothers who endured horrific torture during their childhood by Turkish soldiers. It’s not just a tale of survival; it’s about resilience, love, and the bonds that help us navigate through darkness.
T.N.: Sounds incredibly powerful! Given the serious themes, how do you balance the weight of the story with compelling viewing?
S.T.: It’s a fine line we walk. The gravity of the events needs to be portrayed truthfully, while also allowing the audience to connect emotionally. We focus on the humanity of the characters—showing snippets of their lives, their struggles, and moments of love, such as the relationship between Dafni and Tevkros, which provides a counterbalance to the trauma they face.
T.N.: That’s an interesting perspective. Audiences often resonate with hope amidst despair. Speaking of which, both series are based on true events. How important is it for you to maintain that authenticity in storytelling?
S.T.: Authenticity is crucial. We owe it to those who lived through these events to tell their stories with integrity. It’s about honoring their experiences while shedding light on pages of history that need to be remembered. Our research is thorough, and we collaborate with historians and survivors to ensure that we present these narratives responsibly.
T.N.: It’s great to hear how deeply you care about representation. With both series airing on the same evening, how do you see their themes working together?
S.T.: They complement each other beautifully. “Famagusta” explores the broader political narratives and personal impacts of war, while ”17 Threads” zooms into specific human experiences of trauma and recovery. Together, they create a tapestry that underscores the diverse ways history shapes our lives.
T.N.: I can’t wait for Sunday night! Any final thoughts you’d like to share with our viewers ahead of the premiere?
S.T.: I encourage everyone to tune in with an open heart and mind. These stories may evoke strong emotions, but they also remind us of the resilience of the human spirit. I hope viewers find connections to their own lives in these tales and engage in conversations about them afterwards.
T.N.: Thank you, Sotiris! It’s been a pleasure discussing your work. We look forward to the premieres of “Famagusta” and “17 Threads” this Sunday.
S.T.: Thank you! I hope everyone enjoys them.