I'm well aware that the word "powerful" has been used to describe "Eleni" innumerable times...yet it seems the closest word to describe the indescribable. Based on a true story and historical events (namely the civil war in Greece), the film captures a family's struggle in the harsh realities of war, communism and inhumanity...at the hands of people who are the closest to us. Eleni not only delves into the lives of Greek peasants, but attempts to give us a glimpse into their personal background and even mindset as to why they let certain events unfold. Certain actions and decisions that normal, rational people born outside of Greek culture would think impossible or inhumane begin to make sense, and while most viewers will never agree to what is happening, they can at least sympathize. This well-written story is spectacularly filmed (in Spain) and with an incredible musical score-- Eleni is one of the most underrated films of its genre, on par with Dr Zhivago. Unfortunately, the character of Nick is played by John Malcovich...who is grievously miscast for this role (in hindsight it may have been solely to get at least a known Hollywood name attached to the project) and his monotone, lifeless style comes off as neither Greek nor appropriate for such an emotional story-- Linda Hunt, by contrast is amazing. Eleni should absolutely be in the repertoire of any film enthusiast.
Review of Eleni
