Les années de pierre

One of the best greek films ever made! The real story of two young communists in love during the civil war, which followed World War II, in Greece is most touching. Pantelis Voulgaris, the director, is regarded to be the "humaniest" director in Greece; and with this film he proves he deserves this title. Without ending to "cheap" melodrama he succeeds in telling us the story, dealing honestly with its subject. Especially the scene of the communication of the two lovers in the prison (they are imprisoned in cells which are opposite one another and communicate through small mirrors) has an inner strength-it could well be the only reason why to see this film, but it isn't. Bazaka's and Kataleifos' performances are perfect. One is for sure: It is a film that could have won numerous awards (including the Academy awards) if it had been an american or british film.

The civil war and the subsequent vanquishing of communists and in general anyone who opposed the capitalist state of things is a crucial but sensitive subject for modern Greece, hence why its hardly ever depicted in film.

The film tries to be neutral, one on hand that makes sense because it's hard as a filmmaker to express a strong opinion in such a controversial subject whilst trying to make money out of this profession, especially if you're gonna side with the losers. On the other hand however, that takes the essence out of the film. The script is simple and bland, the acting performances aren't special, the scene takes are below average (overly dark).

In my opinion, it would have been a lot better if this film was compressed into half its duration with a quick pace. The musical theme was nice. In the cesspit that is Greek cinema with infinite garbage comedies, this film stands out as watchable. If you are a cinephile it doesn't offer something worthwhile, especially if you are not knowledgeable or interested in modern Greek history, forget it.

It is agreeable that many countries have suffered civil wars or persecution of a merit of the people,but it is very difficult to explain in simple words what is going on in difficult times like these, without the use of weapons,battle scenarios or exaggerated drama. That is why exceptions like this humble and moving film have to be noticed and pointed out,because otherwise public misses a whole treasure of truth,love,patience and faith.If it was a film shot in Hollywood,it would have the gravity of those epic films that won many awards in the past.It is a must-especially for those whose roots are in this country but they live abroad.It shows that Greek people are not a joke,not gangsters,not funny-but-naive guys,but true and strong people that hold on to their beliefs (and they have fought for them until very recently) and they are capable of loving each other in extremely difficult times.The music is the essence of how an event should be combined with sounds.Really it cannot be explained with words,but it intrigues the deepest emotions a person can feel for what is presented in front of them.