Greek Legends Come Alive

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MOVIE REVIEW
Minore
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Genre: Fantasy
Year Released: 2023
Runtime: 1h 51m
Director(s): Konstantinos Koutsoliotas
Writer(s): Konstantinos Koutsoliotas, Elizabeth E. Schuch
Cast: Constantin Symsiris, Davide Tucci, Daphne Alexander, Nicolas Bravos, Efi Papatheodorou, Maria Nephele Douka, Meletis Georgiadis, Igor Gorewicz, Eleftheria Komi
Where To Watch: had its European premiere at FrightFest on August 26, 2023. Further release TBA

RAVING REVIEW: MINORE will forever come to mind when you think of cinematic escapades steeped in Greek legends. Here's a film that has forged its path, dancing between the beats of an age-old creature story and the vibrant rhythms of Greek life. The narrative sweeps you off your feet, transporting you to the emotional labyrinth of William (Davide Tucci) as he journeys into the past, seeking ties with an estranged father. Yet, this isn't all soul-searching; the laughter and lightheartedness are aplenty, thanks to the delightful ensemble of quirky townsfolk.

MINORE knows how to focus on its characters. Each individual in the town shines brightly, avoiding the cliché shadows often lurking in creature tales. These characters aren’t mere placeholders; they’re the beating heart of the narrative. Their charm and unique identities make the movie feel less like a battle against eerie monsters and more like a grand, communal adventure.

Tucci, as William, is the emotional compass guiding us through this expansive cinematic landscape. His performance anchors the plot, but at times, it seems to drift in the background, overshadowed by the playful antics of the townsfolk. Here lies an area where MINORE could've held tighter, with the integration of William's emotional arc with the thrilling creature confrontations.

And let's talk about those creatures. Their design tantalizes the senses, weaving in elements reminiscent of iconic horror motifs. However, their fit into the narrative is sometimes jagged, creating discordant notes. By weaving William's introspective journey more intricately with the looming threat of these creatures, MINORE might have hit a sweeter cinematic note.

Behind the camera, Konstantinos Koutsoliotas fervently manifests his vision of this Greek tale. The infusion of local music intensifies the authenticity, plunging viewers deep into the realm of Greek traditions. While a nod to monstrous tales, MINORE isn't just about the beasts. It delves deeper, addressing themes of identity, heritage, and the strength drawn from unity.

Yet, the film occasionally stumbles under its ambitious weight. The pacing sometimes feels uneven, like a dancer missing a step in a grand performance. But even within these minor missteps, the potential of MINORE shines through. You can catch glimpses of what could have been a tighter, even more enthralling narrative.

MINORE would benefit from a trim in the editing bay, coming in with a nearly 2-hour runtime; the film feels stretched. By focusing more intently on its core story and harmonizing the internal with the external, MINORE could've transformed from a pleasant cinematic experience to an unforgettable one.

In reflection, MINORE is a delightful visual feast, a potpourri of emotions, hearty laughs, and intriguing creature interactions, all set against the rich backdrop of Greek narratives. Its most compelling feature remains its vibrant character palette. Although the film has moments of narrative uncertainty, Koutsoliotas ensures it leaves a lasting impression. MINORE is a visual spectacle that beckons those with an appreciation for beauty. Still, with a gentle nudge of advice, a bit of narrative trimming would make the journey smoother and even more memorable.

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[photo courtesy of MELANCHOLY STAR]

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