Iphigenia (MGM World Films)
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Movie Reviews of Iphigenia (MGM World Films)
Movie Review: Fine Film
Summary: 4 Stars
'Iphigenia' seems to me a film which has succeeded in a difficult achievement - that is, remaining true to the spirit of the original literary work on which it is based, while at the same time being presented in such a way that it can appeal to a wide audience. I have also viewed this director's earlier 'Electra', a much sparer, more theatrical, black and white production, which, I would think, might have much appeal for those interested in Greek tragedy, but little for mass audiences. By using color cinematography, more panoramic views, an appropriately large cast, and a more humanly realistic and natural language(at least in the subtitles), 'Iphigenia' breaks out of the confines of specialty films.
Though somewhat acquainted with the story, I watched the film before having read the play by Euripides on which it is primarily based. The impression I gained from so watching the movie was that here was a story which could be appreciated on a literal level with no background in Greek tragedy. People who enjoy historical epics and costume dramas could find interest in those aspects as well as in the personal dramas of the main characters whose personal fortunes were caught up in the swirl of large events.
The quandary of a king torn between ambition, fear, and love for his daughter; the unbounded distress of a queen over the death for political purposes of her innocent daughter; the naive but noble coming to terms with her fate by the sacrificial victim - these are all circumstances outside the realm of our common, modern existence, but nevertheless the depiction of these circumstances has the power to elicit strong feelings of empathy in the viewer, because the film succeeds in presenting them so humanly and realistically.
After seeing the movie, I read Euripides' play 'Iphigenia in Aulis'. In my view, Cacoyannis stayed very true to the play, eliminating some contrivances of the ancient theater, such as the running commentary by the chorus; and adding some details from other sources, such as the killing of the sacred deer, which angered the goddess, Artemis, and prompted the demand for Agamemnon to sacrifice his daughter. Calchas and Odysseus were given visible parts in the film, whereas in the play they are only alluded to.
Scholars tell us that Euripides' plays contained an undercurrent of ironic criticism of the Athenian rulers of his day, and used the pretext of the Homeric legends as veiled commentary on their follies and shortcomings, particularly the disastrous war with Sparta. He departed from the more idealistic and noble portrayal of the legendary characters by previous Greek playwrights, and his versions of legendary events were permeated with a more humanistic and cynical perspective.
I think that those with a knowledge of the play can discern those elements in this film version as well. Behind the sham of the glorious war of the Greeks to avenge their honor and mete out justice to the offending Trojans, the reality was that this was primarily a political intrigue defined by the jockeying for power by priest, king, and opportunistic upstarts. There are subtle hints as to the collusion between Calchas and Odysseus in manufacturing this demand for sacrifice as part of their design to manipulate the army to their own advantage.
This was a fine movie, and I was tempted to give it five stars based on the powerful performance of Irene Papas, who made a most formidable Clytemnestra in her bitter denunciation of Agamemnon. I give the film a solid four stars based on strong acting and a very engaging presentation of the story by the director.
Movie Review: Powerful Performances / OK Technically
Summary: 4 Stars
Competent in its technical aspects, considering its age. The main weakness is the audio, which is much improved from the VHS release but still overemphasizes "ambience" -- background noises. Some may like it that way; I suspect, however, that it was as simple a thing as poor mike placement. And again, the musical score is sparse: Some may like the stark quality that suggests, but for my tastes a little Hollywood-ization -- a little, not a lot -- would have added to the production.
Please do not hear this as a bad review of this great performance, to which others have accurately paid tribute. But this is not a big-budget production and it looks and sounds like a 1970s foreign film . . . which is exactly what it is.
And like others, I use it in the classroom to introduce Greek tragedy, but I caution the students not to expect "Troy" or "300." Most of them can deal with the fact that there isn't a car chase or gunfight at the end.
Movie Review: I wanted something different and this delivered
Summary: 4 Stars
I enjoyed the acting in this very interesting film. It was refreshing to view a film untainted by the worn out formula of graphic sex, violence, explosions and vulgarity. Good acting and lots of options with subtitles and dubbing. If you're not in the mood for this radical departure, you may not like it. But I was hungry for a change of pace and this delivered nicely. I got so absorbed in the acting I felt like I was in the presence of the actors. There are a couple very powerful moments in the film where the acting between the king and the queen is a real jaw-dropper. For me, just those well-acted scenes were worth the cost.Movie Review: awesome Greek play
Summary: 4 Stars
This film has a rapturing tale. Gods and men are monstruous liars. I think the moral of the play speaks directly to my heart: in life - like in the play - men lie to hide their crimes and the innocents end up paying for the sins of others. Nothing in life is obvious or should be taken for granted - the love you believe to have now may loose you in the end...Movie Review: Authenticity inspired by Pasolini
Summary: 4 Stars
I do like the work of Kakogiannis. There are definitely echo's of Pasolini's Medea and Edipo Re in his movies. I think this movie is made with a lot of respect for the original playwrite. Also, I like the original scenery chosen. I am still hoping that one day also the Odyssee and Eneide from Rossi will be put on DVD !