Greece’s culture ministry has declined a request by the Greek director of the Oscar-winning “Poor Things” to film at the Acropolis, saying the scenes did not align with the storied site’s image. Yorgos Lanthimos is one of Greece’s best-known film makers, directing the 2024 hit “Poor Things” that won four Oscars, including Best Actress for Hollywood star Emma Stone.

Lanthimos, 51, whose work has also won numerous awards in the United States and Europe, had asked to film some scenes from his new movie, a sci-fi comedy called “Bugonia” also starring Stone, at the Acropolis in April. But the culture ministry said in a statement on Thursday that it had refused permission because “the proposed scenes are incompatible with the symbolism ... and the values the Acropolis represents.”

Greek media have reported that the scenes in question involved dead bodies strewn around the Acropolis rock. The ministry said it had suggested alternative outdoor locations near the monument, Greece’s best-known archaeological site. “Bugonia” is slated to be released in November. — AFP