Mikra Anglia

Little England is the beautiful Greek island of Andros, in the 1930's - an island breeding sailors who spend most of their lives at sea, while some of them are destined never to return. Their women – mothers, daughters, wives, lovers - adjust their own lives to the pattern of the men's absence, looking forward to the happy yet brief homecomings, always praying for their safety, always half-dreading the worst.

This is the premise of the film's story - a tragic love story of epic proportions - based on Ioanna Karystiani's best-selling book. Mrs. Karystiani herself finely adapts her novel for the screen, while her husband, renowned Greek director Pantelis Voulgaris ("Brides") takes it from there and, with the help of a great cast of actors, creates an almost flawless masterpiece.

(I am not supposed to give away any spoilers, so I can only say that the film's climactic scene will probably make it to my personal top ten movie moments of all time).

One of the most beautiful films I have ever seen. Its what you call a quality film. Exquisite portrayal of the sisterhood. Lust, love, jealousy and passion are shown in the most tearful, humane way.

I watched this movie when it was first released and I didn't find myself in awe, unlike literally everyone else I knew. So, I gave it a second and a third chance, because I didn't want to be unjust. It's definitely an extremely meticulously made film, with exceptional aesthetics and use of sounds. I found the parallelism of people's feelings to the sea's temper astounding. BUT. I have a major issue with the very essence of the film; it's overly dramatic portrayal of a tragic story. I do realize the movie's totally different era, culture and values, but I can't digest easily one's submission -especially without a fight- to an unwanted fate that somebody else imposes on them. Plus, I found the acting to be quite unnatural and over the top, to the point it felt disturbing -especially by Moscha and sometimes by Orsa and their mother. I understand the director's poetic/theatrical point of view, it just felt too much and too dragged for me. However, it is a beautiful movie, absolutely worth watching and reflecting upon.

Pantelis Voulgaris in his best so far film. The actors, photography, scrip everything was in tune! I am Just grateful I have watched this film! The aesthetics have a unique character. The cinematography gives of a real character to the film. Every angle is beautiful and truly can me isolated, framed and hung on a wall. Nevertheless it is so humble without exaggerations operates in favor of the storytelling. The characters are very well written and have an amazing depth to a point that become symbols. The actors gave wonderful performances and in many cases we see excellency in acting. After leaving the cinema I felt that I have seen something magnificent. I cannot recall many films giving me such filling!

The cast and the performances are brilliant! A true masterpiece ! Love , pain, duty.