Never on Sunday (1960)

In the pulsating heart of the vibrant Port of Piraeus, exists Ilya, a woman of unparalleled charm and infectious vivacity. Renowned as the town's most engaging personality, Ilya is a streetwalker, whose unorthodox independence and high spirits have become the talk of the town. Her life is a blend of buoyant good humor and infectious energy, her days filled with swimming at the pier and entertaining dockhands, while Sundays are marked by open house festivities filled with food, drink, and song. But beneath this lively exterior lies a woman of complexity, whose paradoxical existence intrigues the American intellectual and amateur philosopher, Homer Thrace. Hailing from the quaint town of Middletown, Connecticut, Homer arrives in Piraeus with a burning question: why has Greece, the cradle of ancient greatness, experienced such a decline? He sees in Ilya a living symbol of this fall, a beautiful enigma that encapsulates the paradox of modern Greek life. Enamored by her spirit, yet troubled by what she represents, Homer becomes Ilya's unlikely Pygmalion, hoping to study and save her from her lifestyle. However, unbeknownst to Ilya, the funds for Homer's educational gifts and philosophical endeavors are sourced from Mr. No Face, the local vice boss. Wishing to retire Illia, who's independence inspires other women in her profession, he invests in Homer's quest. Simultaneously, the handsome Greek-Italian dockhand, Tonio, vies for Ilya's affections, adding another layer of complexity to the unfolding drama. In the midst of this whirlwind, Homer has two short weeks to achieve his task. As he navigates the labyrinth of Ilya's world, he might just stumble upon life's profound truths and perhaps, discover the elusive secret of happiness. Yet, as the clock ticks, a question lingers: Whose spirit will prevail? Will it be Homer's idealistic notions or Ilya's untamed, vibrant spirit?

Never on Sunday is a comedy movie featuring Melina Mercouri.

Never on Sunday is currently streaming on Amazon Prime Video.