LOS ANGELES – The Los Angeles Greek Film Festival (LAGFF) announced the 20th LAGFF Orpheus Honoree is Alexandre Desplat, the award-winning composer whose cinematic scores are all deeply connected to the core of the story.
From the balalaika in Wes Anderson’s ‘The Grand Budapest Hotel’ to the bandoneon in Guillermo del Toro’s ‘The Shape of Water’ – both Oscar wins for the Greek-French maestro – Desplat’s music has always served as a delicate storytelling device that never overpowered the visuals
“Alexandre is in my opinion one of the best, if not the best composer alive,” said director Guillermo del Toro. “He is a guy who knows exactly why he is doing something and exactly how to achieve an emotion and exactly how to make the music eloquent.”
During the 2025 Cannes Film Festival Society of Authors, Composers, and Publishers of Music discussion, Desplat stated: “It’s the beauty of the film I’m invited to be part of, that allows me to slide into it, the way an actor would. The composer is just a guest in this theatre. I use the tools I’ve stockpiled: musical tools, of course, but emotional tools too – fed by what I’ve read, museums I’ve visited… then share all that with the film.”
The Los Angeles Greek Film Festival (LAGFF) released the 20th anniversary poster with photography by Georgia Tripodes, artwork by Araceli Lemos and Joel Garber, and additional artwork by Manos Krokos. Photo: Courtesy of LAGFF
On Sunday, May 31, Closing Night of the 20th LAGFF, the 2026 Tribute and Honorary Orpheus Award will be presented to composer Alexandre Desplat, an artist whose genre-bending work has inspired and influenced generations of storytellers.
Tickets to the 20th LAGFF Closing Night are available online: https://shorturl.at/QkKA4.
The LAGFF also released the 20th anniversary poster with photography by Georgia Tripodes, artwork by Araceli Lemos and Joel Garber, and additional artwork by Manos Krokos.
The LAGFF announced the European Languages & Movies in America (ELMA) is their Co-Presenter this year. “We extend our gratitude to Founder Pascal Ladreyt and Director Malin Kan for their trust and belief in our work and potential,” LAGFF said in a statement via email.
George P. Kolovos. Photo: Courtesy of LAGFF
Founded in 2007, European Languages & Movies in America (ELMA) is a Santa Monica-based foundation dedicated to showcasing European cinema to foster cross-cultural dialogue. In partnership with festivals, consulates, cultural institutes and local organizations, ELMA supports a diverse range of European film screenings and cultural events across Los Angeles. The organization is based on the belief that film is a universal language, one that sparks curiosity, develops understanding, and creates meaningful connections between people and cultures. Through screenings, conversations, educational programming and community events, ELMA celebrates the richness of Europe’s cinematic traditions while making international storytelling accessible and engaging for audiences of all ages.
Memory Eternal for George P. Kolovos
“Despite the excitement and promised success, 2026 is already a bittersweet year for the LAGFF community as we mourn the passing of our beloved patron George P. Kolovos,” the LAGFF said. “George was a devoted philanthropist and a passionate champion of Greek culture, dedicated to building meaningful bridges between his homeland and his adopted country. From the very beginning of LAGFF through today, he was one of its most steadfast supporters and benefactors.”
“Together with his beloved wife, Tina Kolovos, and his children Peter and Maria Elena, the Kolovos family played an instrumental role in helping LAGFF grow and thrive, becoming among its most generous and enduring patrons. His legacy of generosity, cultural pride, and community spirit will remain an indelible part of the Festival and the Greek-American community. He will be deeply missed.”
