The Bring Your Chair – Cozy Festival returns to Sifnos in August 2025 with a special anniversary program dedicated to cinema, music, and contemporary societal themes. Continuing its tradition of hosting internationally renowned filmmakers, the festival honors two iconic directors this year: Costa Gavras, with a screening of his latest film ‘The Last Breath,’ and Emir Kusturica, who will present his award-winning film ‘White Cat, Black Cat’ during two special evenings at the courtyard of the Sifnos Municipal School in Fyrogia.
Costa Gavras, known globally for his politically charged films and deep social commentary, continues to highlight fundamental freedoms and human rights through his cinematic lens. Meanwhile, Emir Kusturica, celebrated for his surreal storytelling and vibrant musical style, will be honored as an honorary citizen of Sifnos by Mayor Maria Nadaeli and receive a commemorative ceramic artwork crafted by local ceramist Giannis Lembesis and visual artist Alexia Psaradelli.
Following each film screening, there will be Q&A sessions featuring the directors and esteemed film critic Ninos Fenek Mikelidis. The festival runs from August 3rd to August 27th, 2025, offering six free events that reinforce culture as a shared, accessible good. It is organized with the support of the 21st Ephorate of Prehistoric and Classical Antiquities, the Cultural Association of Sifnos, and the Municipality of Sifnos, along with generous contributions from Cosmorama Travel Agency, Paliria S.A., and Aegean Sea Lines as Official Ferry Ticket Sponsor.
Highlights include:
– **’White Cat, Black Cat’** by Emir Kusturica on August 3rd, an acclaimed film that won the Silver Lion at the 1998 Venice Film Festival.
– **Mystic Sifnos**, a surprise ambient music recital by trumpeter and composer Andreas Polyzogopoulos, set in the 18th-century Church of Agios Ioannis Chrysostomos on August 7th.
– **Chet’s Mood** on August 9th, a jazz tribute to Chet Baker performed by Andreas Polyzogopoulos Trio at the archaeological site of Agios Andreas.
– **By the Book**, a public discussion titled ‘Human Measure in the Digital World’ featuring Professor Pano Constantopoulos and psychoanalyst Amina Moskof on August 17th.
– **’The Last Breath’**, Costa Gavras’ latest film exploring life, death, and dignity in modern society, screening on August 24th.
– **Face Moves & Good Vibes**, a relaxing face yoga session led by instructor Maria Pampoukidou on August 27th at the Faros Theatre.
This year’s Cozy Festival promises unforgettable cultural experiences under the stars, blending art, philosophy, music, and film in one of the most beautiful islands of the Cyclades.