GLOBAL CULTURES: UK CYPRUS FILM FEST – CAMBRIDGE EDITION 10 MAY 2026
Join us for the Cambridge edition of the 2026 UK Cyprus Film Fest. The event begins at 2pm with a screening of ‘Skammata’, followed by ‘Pause, at 4pm, with ‘Committed’ completing the line-up at 6pm.
SKAMMATA 2024, 87 mins (12A) Cyprus
FIRST CAMBRIDGE SCREENING
Directed by: Danae Stylianou
Sunday 10 May @ 2pm
(followed by a post-screening discussion)
Greek with English subtitles
Skammata (meaning “excavation trenches”) is a compelling documentary that reflects on the relationship between archaeology, memory, and conflict in Cyprus. Through conversations with Cypriot and international archaeologists, as well as former staff of the Department of Antiquities, the film revisits the dramatic interruption of archaeological work following the 1974 coup d’état and the Turkish invasion of Cyprus.
Combining personal testimonies, historical reflection, and archival material from excavations across the island, Skammata reveals how archaeology is not only a scientific discipline but also a deeply human practice shaped by politics, displacement, and loss. The film explores how archaeologists – many of whom had dedicated decades to uncovering Cyprus’s ancient past – were suddenly forced to abandon sites, collections, and research in the north of the island.
More than a historical account, the documentary becomes a meditation on cultural heritage, identity, and the enduring connection between people, landscape, and memory.
PAUSE 2018, 96 mins (15) Cyprus
FIRST CAMBRIDGE SCREENING
Directed by: Tonia Mishiali
Sunday 10 May @ 4pm
Greek with English subtitles
In contemporary Cyprus, Elpida is a middle-aged housewife trapped in a suffocating marriage with a controlling husband who constantly belittles her. As she begins to experience the emotional and physical upheavals of menopause, her sense of self, long suppressed by years of domestic routine and social expectation – starts to resurface.
Unable to express her frustration openly, Elpida retreats into vivid inner fantasies in which she confronts her husband and reclaims the freedom she has been denied. These imagined scenarios become increasingly intense, blurring the boundaries between her internal world and reality.
With dark humour and psychological insight, Pause offers a powerful portrait of a woman quietly rebelling against the constraints placed upon her. Tonia Mishiali’s acclaimed debut feature explores themes of female identity, repression, ageing, and autonomy, while exposing the invisible pressures faced by many women in patriarchal societies.
COMMITTED 2014, 89 mins (15) Cyprus
FIRST CAMBRIDGE SCREENING
Directed by: Stelana Kliris
Sunday 10 May @ 6pm
Greek with English subtitles
George is a young man under pressure – from family, friends, and society – to take the next step and propose to his girlfriend. Overwhelmed by expectations and unsure about the future, he impulsively escapes the situation by leaving town. On his journey he unexpectedly crosses paths with a runaway bride who is facing her own doubts about marriage.
Thrown together by chance, the two strangers embark on an unpredictable road trip across Cyprus. As they travel through the island’s landscapes and encounter a series of humorous and revealing situations, their conversations gradually uncover deeper fears, hopes, and questions about love, commitment, and personal freedom.
Blending romantic comedy with moments of heartfelt reflection, Committed is a warm and entertaining exploration of relationships and the courage it takes to make life-changing decisions.
FINDING THE VENUE
This event will take place in West Court, Jesus College. The pedestrian entrance can be accessed from Jesus Lane. On arrival, you will be directed to the screening hall. Please see the detailed map below for further information.
PRESENTED IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE CYPRUS HIGH COMMISSION
WITH THANKS TO
This event is part of Panorama’s partnership with Jesus College, Cambridge. Global Cultures at Jesus College is produced by Panorama and led by Director Matthew Webb. Its goal is to contribute to Cambridge city beyond our walls, offering unique cultural moments with world-class figures through its regular events, which are open to all. In the last year alone, we have featured master craftspeople, Noh theatre mask makers, National Geographic photographers, and film directors, producers and talent. Monthly events throughout the year will provide many opportunities for you to participate.
Support
If you have any questions about tickets, ticketing, or the event in general, please do write to us via [email protected], and we’ll be in touch.