Cast
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Vasilis Logothetidis
as Anargyros Loumbardopoulos
Ilia Livykou
as Fifi
Mimis Fotopoulos
as Beggar
Sperantza Vrana
as Maria
Orestis Makris
as Vasilis Mavridis
Ellie Lambeti
as Aliki
Dimitris Horn
as Pavlos
Dimitris Myrat
as Narrator
Vagelis Protopapas
as Dinos
Maria Kalamiotou
as Fanitsa
Lela Patrikiou
as Mrs. Mavridou
Zoras Tsapelis
as Dimitris
Athanasia Moustaka
as Katerina (Aliki's nanny)
Giorgos Vlahopoulos
as policeman
Lavrentis Dianellos
as Anastasis
Crew
Director
- Yorgos Tzavellas
Writer
- Yorgos Tzavellas
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Counterfeit Coin 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 Yorgos Tzavellas 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 1955, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of The Counterfeit Coin took approximately 5 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 118 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 142 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The costume department created over 142 unique costume pieces for the production.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 1955, when this film was released:
- The Cold War was intensifying, influencing global politics and culture.
- Rock and roll music was revolutionizing popular culture.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Counterfeit Coin shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Heart and Souls, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Counterfeit Coin subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Lake of Death and Savage Dog explore similar territory, The Counterfeit Coin stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: December 28, 1955
- Runtime: 1h 58m
