Although many of us disregard Greece's film production,(which by the way exists over fifty years), "ta kokkina fanaria" is considered as one of the finest examples of Greek filmography (along with M. Kakoyianni's "Stella" , G. Javella's "kalpiki lira" and plenty worth-talking films produced on the 50s and 60s).The film is about a shady neighborhood in Piraeus , where most of the habitants are whores.The story is not the subject i am focusing on in this film ,(even though script is really well written). Main subject is atmosphere.. Most of the film is "steamed" by an almost underground, even mythical attitude , that leaves an irresistibly charming sense of decadence, "forcing" you to ignore any vulgarity that may seemingly exists .. The theatrical-like set is giving a quite real (although sometimes affectedly graphic) taste of the "underworld". The heroines,(which have a lot of common characteristics with ancient-tragedies heroines), are incredible convincing at their prostitute-roles, (remarkable place posses Tzenny Karezi , whose acting power just ties the viewer down); also, two of the most acclaimed Greek actors acting , G.Fountas and M.Katrakis.Their acting is something more than the interpretations we are more or less used to.It is strong and genuine,without even a pinch of exaggeration, giving the impression that they were born in there.. I thing that what we have here ,in general , is some of the finest interpretations of the last 40 years. Viewing this picture,surely confirms the well-known "rule" that quality does not necessarily affected by "low" budget, as long as talented people exists that have desire and freedom to act at the highest level of their artistic skills.
Review of The Red Lanterns
