Alexis Zorbas(Zorba the Greek)
US (1964): Drama
If ever there was a role that Anthony Quinn was born to play, it was the lusty, life-affirming title character in Zorba the Greek. The scene is the isle of Crete, where English writer Alan Bates arrives in the hopes of realigning his own values and outlook on life. He is "adopted" by the flamboyant Zorba, who determines to educate Bates in the ways of the world -- or, to be more precise, Zorba's world. Along the way, Bates is introduced to widow Irene Papas, the unrequited love object of everyone on the island, who comes to a tragic end when she is accused of adultery. The writer is also a spectator to the equally benighted romance between Zorba and venerable courtesan Lila Kedrova. Other disasters follow, but Zorba is able to convince Bates that failure is an inescapable part of life, and that only by constantly tasting defeat can one truly enjoy life's victories. Based on the novel by Nikos Kazantzakis. (20th Century-Fox, Cacoyannis, Rochely/Int'l Classics) )Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide)
7 nominations, 3 Awards
· Supporting Actress 1964: Lila Kedrova
· Art Direction/Set Decoration (Black and White) 1964: Vassilis Fotopoulos - Art Direction
· Cinematography (Black and White) 1964: Walter Lassally
· Best Picture 1964: Michael Cacoyannis - Producer (Rochley, International Classics/20th Century-Fox)
· Actor 1964: Anthony Quinn
· Directing 1964: Michael Cacoyannis
· Writing (Best Screenplay based on material from another medium) 1964: Michael Cacoyannis