Little England (2013)
"Little England" is a beautifully crafted and emotionally resonant movie that explores the intricate relationships between family members and the impact of secrets and betrayals on their lives. Directed by Pantelis Voulgaris and starring Penelope Tsilika and Sofia Kokkali, the film takes place in a small Greek island during the 1930s, and tells the story of two sisters who fall in love with the same man.
The plot of the movie follows the sisters as they navigate their complicated feelings and desires, struggling to balance their own happiness with their family's expectations and societal norms. As their relationships with each other and with the man they both love become more fraught and complicated, they find themselves confronting their own inner demons and the limitations of their own choices.
The themes and tone of the movie are both melancholic and introspective, with a sense of nostalgia and longing that pervades the film. The acting is superb, with Tsilika and Kokkali delivering standout performances as Orsa and Moscha, capturing the characters' sense of passion, despair, and vulnerability. The supporting cast also does an excellent job, with Andreas Konstantinou and Aneza Papadopoulou delivering nuanced and complex performances as two of the sisters' closest confidants.
The direction of the movie is elegant and visually stunning, with Voulgaris using evocative camera movements and striking visual compositions to create a sense of beauty and elegance. The score, composed by Kostas Christides, is haunting and atmospheric, adding to the film's sense of tragedy and longing.
The cinematography and production design are also noteworthy, with the use of naturalistic lighting and picturesque landscapes creating a sense of authenticity and beauty. The special effects and editing are minimal, with the filmmakers choosing to focus on the characters and their emotions rather than on flashy visual effects.
The pace of the movie is slow and deliberate, with long takes and extended silences emphasizing the characters' sense of hesitation and uncertainty. The dialog is sparse but impactful, with each word carrying weight and significance.
Overall, "Little England" is a moving and poignant movie that will leave you feeling both uplifted and saddened. It's a film that captures the complexities and contradictions of family relationships, and the way that our own desires and secrets can shape our lives and the lives of those around us. While it may not be for everyone, it's a must-see for anyone who values emotionally charged and intellectually challenging cinema that celebrates the beauty and tragedy of the human experience.
