The story shows the impact of the Italian invasion during World War II and particularly, on the heart of Pelagia, the character played by Cruz. While Spanish native Cruz, who just started using English in films shortly before this film, neither looks nor sounds particularly Greek, the on-screen chemistry is potent. Cage, whose original name is Coppola, is more at home in his role as the musical Italian captain.
Based on the controversial novel by Louis De Bernières, the story has its roots in fact - how much so depends on whether one listens to the author or to the man many believe is the "real" Captain Corelli, 89 year-old Arnos Pampaloni. Like Corelli, Pampaloni served on Cephalonia, and loved a Greek girl; unlike Corelli, he ended up fighting with the Greek resistance, which is negatively portrayed in De Bernières book.
True fans of Greece will be watching the movie's other star, the island itself. The detailed reconstruction of Argostoli, destroyed in the earthquake of 1953, has even attracted the admiration of Cephalonians.
Similar territory was covered some years ago in Mediterraneo, which was filmed on the island of Kastellórizon. Kastellórizon survived the attention with its untouched charm intact, but Cephalonia seems to be planning to make the most of its time in the spotlight.
What's the Impact on Your Travel?
British booking services initially reported a virtual sellout on the island after the movie was released. Expect substantially increased crowding on Cephalonia through next year, and a residual effect for some time after that.
Already, local entrepreneurs are offering tours of locations used in the film. However, fans may be disappointed at the reality of steep paths and crowded beaches; check out June Field's Athens News article linked above for the real lowdown on the locations.
To see a trailer for the film, go to the official website.
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