Yorgos Lanthimos and Vasilis Marmatakis Create Unique Film Posters
The collaboration between Greek filmmaker Yorgos Lanthimos and graphic designer Vasilis Marmatakis results in visually striking posters that reflect the unique storytelling found in Lanthimos’s films. Their latest project, the film “Bugonia,” tells the story of two cousins who kidnap a woman they believe to be an extraterrestrial being. This latest work continues the tradition of bizarre circumstances and dark humor that characterizes Lanthimos’s films.
Since his breakthrough with the 2009 feature “Dogtooth,” Lanthimos has consistently worked with Marmatakis to produce posters that are as thought-provoking as the films themselves. The two first met in the early 2000s while collaborating in the advertising industry with screenwriter Efthymis Filippou, a frequent writing partner of Lanthimos.
During a recent video call, Lanthimos shared insights into the artistic process. He highlighted Marmatakis’s ability to encapsulate profound themes of the film without revealing too much. “Vasilis tries to visualize a profound aspect of the film through the image that he creates, something that really represents the film without explaining it,” he explained. This synergy between the poster and the film ensures that they resonate with audiences.
Marmatakis, who begins his design process as soon as he receives the completed screenplay, expressed his admiration for Lanthimos’s work. “They are dark, pop and funny,” he noted from his studio in Athens. He appreciates the visually stunning elements present in Lanthimos’s narratives, providing him with rich material to work with. His designs aim to capture the essence of the story while enticing viewers.
Their collaboration remains rooted in their shared cultural background. “We always discuss things in Greek,” Marmatakis noted, emphasizing the importance of their connection. This shared language allows for a deeper understanding of the narratives they explore together.
As “Bugonia” prepares for release, anticipation builds not only for the film itself but also for Marmatakis’s accompanying artwork. The posters promise to challenge viewers’ perceptions, offering a glimpse into the surreal world that Lanthimos creates. Fans of both the filmmaker and the designer can expect an innovative visual representation that aligns with the film’s themes.
This collaboration exemplifies how art and cinema can intertwine to produce compelling narratives and striking visuals. Through their unique partnership, Lanthimos and Marmatakis continue to push the boundaries of film promotion, engaging audiences in unexpected ways.