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Absences

Absences (1987)

Oct 01, 1987 1h 47m Romance Drama

A family story of incest, decadence and desolation. Greece, early twentieth century. A bourgeois family is on the verge of breaking up. The mother has abandoned the family, and the father, a retired officer, keeps his three daughters, as well as the illegitimate son of the oldest daughter, confined in the house. After his death, the three sisters live through their personal drama. The eldest, Eleni, imbued with the morals of the time and closely identifying with her father, tries to take his place. The middle one, Maria, representing rebellion, goes off with a captain of the sanitation service, while the youngest, Anna, skating on thin ice through all this, is completely destroyed.

Directed by Giorgos Katakouzinos

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Giorgos Katakouzinos
Producer
  • Giorgos Katakouzinos
  • Zorz Sarri
  • G. Krezias

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Absences examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.

Director Giorgos Katakouzinos brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 1987, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Absences took approximately 35 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 107 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 148 minutes long.
  • Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 10 months to complete.
  • The film contains approximately 2273 individual shots.

Historical Context

  • In 1987, when this film was released:
  • Personal computers were beginning to transform homes and workplaces.
  • The Cold War was entering its final phase.
  • Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.

How This Film Stands Out

Details

  • Release Date: October 1, 1987
  • Runtime: 1h 47m

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