Ella‘s story begins in Greece, she is the only child of Jack, an American singer-song writer and Despina, a Greek, zany, overprotective Gyros owner. Nick, Ella’s only friend, is a 10 year old shy, nerdy looking boy. Ella and Nick grow and their friendship turns into love but in 2010 the Greek economy collapses, Nick vanishes and Jack dies. Despina and Ella have to move overnight to America for their survival. Now Ella is a 27 years old late-bloomer, with zero love life, dreaming of becoming a singer, but Despina pressures her to take over the Gyros. During their daily fight, Despina drops dead of a heart attack only to returns as an intervening ghost, haunting Ella with unwanted advice and romantic guidance after Nick re-surfaces as a handsome doctor (and something of a playboy). In this supernatural heartwarming romantic comedy-drenched in Greek Drama – Ella will ultimately take control of her life. Find the meaning of true love and learn how to deal with the passing of her mother.
KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Mikella G. comments, “Greek Mothers Never Die is a comedic, warm-hearted movie. I really like this film and the way that it highlights the Greek experience. It’s over-the-top dramatic in such an exciting way!” See her full review below.
Greek Mothers Never Die
Mikella G., KIDS FIRST! Film Critics, age 18
Greek Mothers Never Die is a comedic, warm-hearted movie. I really like this film and the way that it highlights the Greek experience. It’s over-the-top dramatic in such an exciting way!
Greek Mothers Never Die follows the story of Despina (Rachel Suissa) and her daughter Ella (Abby Miner) who move from Greece to a small island in Florida after the economic crisis happening in Greece. Unfortunately, Despina unexpectedly dies, but she still finds ways to control Ella from beyond the grave. Ella is able to see ghosts of her mother, after struggling with her grief. Throughout the film, we watch Ella try to figure out who she is, and not be so alone. However, the burden of her overwhelming Greek mother takes her on a wild journey into discovering her identity.
I really enjoyed all the comedic aspects of this film. Getting to learn about the Greek mother-daughter relationship was really interesting to me. Seeing how overprotective Greek mothers are, yet so loving, and always putting their children first is so special. I could feel the energy and joy that this film created with the audience in the theater. For example, at one point, Despina is spying on Ella while she is interacting with a boy. This moment is quite funny, and something that people can easily relate too. Another standout is Rachel Suissa’s talent. Not only does she play the leading role of Despina, she also directed the film, wrote the script, and wrote most of the music. Her work ethic and quality of work is extremely impressive. Rachel’s passion and love for this project is so evident, and shines through as you watch the film. The storyline was inspired by her own life, making everything feel very authentic. There certainly would be no better person to take on this project than her. Lastly, the chemistry and connection between Abby Miner, and Simon Rérolle, who plays Nick, is outstanding. These two actors work so well together, and you can feel the love they have for each other bouncing off the screen. I learned that they had very little time from meeting one another, to filming, which makes their connection even more incredible. It is almost natural — I found myself smiling at the screen because of their lovely admiration for one another. All of their moments on the boat dock are key to the development of their relationship, and establish such a genuine connection.
The message of Greek Mothers Never Die is to never take love for granted, and always listen to your heart.
I give Greek Mothers Never Die 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It releases on all streaming platforms May 9, 2025.
