Melina Mercouri

When Homer (Jules Dassin) -- a would-be philosopher from the States -- takes a trip to Greece, he meets free-spirited prostitute Ilya (Melina Mercouri) and arrogantly decides to become her Svengali in this internationally celebrated classic. But Homer may wind up learning a few lessons from his protégé. Dassin also wrote and directed the romantic comedy, which garnered several Oscar nominations, snagging a win for Best Song.