Gay sex scene filmed at Athens Acropolis under investigation by police in Greece
The producers, who haven't identified themselves, said the act was one of political activism.
Words: Alastair James; pictures: Wiki
Greece is a country known for offering stunning views, but some likely tourists got more of a view than they were anticipating when visiting the Acropolis in Athens.
Authorities are investigating the shooting of a gay sex scene at the historic site, which has caused a significant backlash. The Acropolis is one of Greece’s most historical sites and is a UNESCO-protected site.
A 36-minute short film called Xeparthenon (meaning ‘deflowering’) was shot by producers who are remaining anonymous but have claimed that it was an act of “political activism”.
“We will live our love and sexuality as we wish”
According to the Greek Reporter, the film shows two men with their faces covered having sex while surrounded by others pretending to take photos. Tourists are seen in the background.
Greece’s Ministry of Culture says they’re working to “find as soon as possible those responsible for this illegal shoot” and that it did not give permission for anyone to film at the historic site.
“The archeological site of the Acropolis is not suitable for any kind of activism or other activity which would cause offense and displays disrespect for the monument,” the ministry adds as reported by The Greek Reporter.
The paper also carries the statement from the filmmakers which reads: “Some of us are subject to physical and verbal violence for our choices and expressions of sexuality… we will live our love and sexuality as we wish and we will defend the existence in public, but also the coexistence, of all sexualities that do not violate the self-disposition of our bodies.
“The choice of the Parthenon is not accidental. It works for many as a symbol of nationalism, commercialisation, mass culture and puritanism.”
The president of the Greek Actors Association, Spyros Bibilas, has described the film as “shameful” saying “You can not do anything you want in the name of activism. In fact, I don’t consider this to be activism…”
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