Filius-Mihail Canakis is a Manhattan-born multi-hyphenate who grew up between Athens, Dusseldorf and the UK. An actor who has performed in London and Edinburgh theatres, an artist, and a musician, this young Greco-German guy is now turning his talents to modelling.
Who are you, where are you from, and what do you do?
I am Filius-Mihail from Athens. I’m a Greek/German who was born in New York and spent most of my life in London. I specialized in theatre at drama school but I do a little bit of everything, whether it’s acting, modeling, writing, or creating works of art.
How did your career get started?
I initially graduated from drama school in London after completing compulsory army service in Greece and was soon after scouted on a trip to Athens, where I had gone to meet a few directors. Therefore I got into modeling too, which is kind of acting in 2D.
What unique quality do you think you bring to the table?
Too young to say I think, time will show, still growing.
What is the biggest misconception people have about you?
That I seem unapproachable at first but then I befriend everyone.
Who was the first artist [in fashion/art/film/music] to make a big impression on you?
The first time I laid eyes upon Egon Schiele’s work I was mesmerized… when it comes to film I’d say Ingmar Bergman and Andrei Tarkovsky definitely made a huge impression on me!
Who was the last artist to make a big impression on you?
People around me and my surroundings! I’d say that’s also the source of what inspires me!
What has been the biggest surprise or learning curve in the industry so far?
I learned that sometimes you just can’t control anything and just have to (try to) relax and go with the flow.
What motivates you?
People around me and my surroundings! I’d say that’s also the source of what inspires me!
What keeps you up at night?
Homeless cats in heat.
What/who is under-appreciated?
Connan Mockasin and Dev Hynes.
What’s the best experience you’ve had in fashion?
Can’t say I can think of a specific moment. Generally, I like it when I’m free to do what I want on set, dancing around and just being me for the day.
What project are you working on now/next?
A number of things. Can never seem to just do one thing. At the moment, I’m about to start rehearsals for this play happening in October (I’m under strict rules not to disclose anything about it yet). Simultaneously I’m writing two films, one of which is all about tackling what masculinity is in today’s world, tagging Athens, potentially starting up a fashion brand and of course continuing shooting interesting pictures!
Photography – Yiorgos Mavropoulos for MODELS.com
Styling – Filius-Mihail Canakis
Model – Filius-Mihail Canakis @ d model agency (Athens)