"Wasted Youth" (2011)
"Wasted Youth" is a powerful and thought-provoking movie that explores the lives of two young men in Athens, Greece, as they navigate the challenges of adolescence and adulthood in a society that seems to offer them little hope or opportunity. Directed by Argyris Papadimitropoulos and Jan Vogel, the film tells a story of boredom, frustration, and rebellion that will resonate with anyone who has ever felt trapped by their circumstances.
The plot of the movie is a loosely structured and observational exploration of the characters' lives, with no clear narrative arc or resolution. The themes and tone are bleak and nihilistic, with a sense of hopelessness and despair that pervades the film. The acting is excellent, with the young actors, Haris Markou and Ieronymos Kaletsanos, delivering raw and authentic performances that capture the characters' anger, frustration, and vulnerability.
The direction of the movie is understated and unobtrusive, with Papadimitropoulos and Vogel letting the characters and their surroundings speak for themselves. The score, composed by Kostas Christides, is minimalist and atmospheric, adding to the film's sense of bleakness and despair.
The cinematography and production design are also noteworthy, with the use of naturalistic lighting and handheld camerawork creating a sense of intimacy and authenticity. 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 ennui and aimlessness. The dialog is sparse and naturalistic, with the characters often speaking in monosyllables or grunts.
Overall, "Wasted Youth" is a challenging and uncompromising movie that will leave you feeling raw and exposed. It's a film that captures the sense of alienation and despair that many young people feel in today's society, and the struggle to find meaning and purpose in a world that seems indifferent to their struggles. While it may not be for everyone, it's a must-see for anyone who values raw and authentic cinema that doesn't shy away from the darker aspects of human experience.
