Spirtokouto

"Spirtokouto" is a movie that is really hard to watch. From the very beginning till the very end, one can sympathize with the main character, who suffers diverse psychological deaths (as depicted by black-and-white stop shots).

"Spirtokouto" is the greek word for matchbox. People who resemble matches and only need some stimuli to be on fire.

Despite that it is a gripping movie from the very first scene, "Spirtokouto" is a bit excessive, as far as verbal violence is concerned. Also, the viewer can't figure out much about the characters' past, except perhaps for the part of Dimitris (Mitsos ;)) which is developed fairly well. Even so, the movie is more than a mere depiction of the miserable life of a Greek family which might very well exist.

The writers manage to discuss successfully several aspects of every day life in Greece and even discuss some social phenomena. While one cannot argue of course that what is presented is typical of a greek family, it might well be said that it is not a very distant reality for a part of the greek population.

Despite any disadvantages, the film a noticeably good try about society, it could be an example of realistic film-making that is definitely worth seeing. 7.5/10

When this movie came out, it polarized audiences due to the heavy and continuous use of vulgar cussing. It was so over the top, that many, even today consider it to be a comedy-an absurd one at that- and you know what? It does come off as one to an extent.

However, if you take the time to look deeper and try to understand the connection with the average modern Greek decadent suburban family, you will discover another layer of filmmaking, full of realism and raw motion. The characters may feel over the top but I believe it was done on purpose, to convey how horrific every-day life for some people can be. From the father and the mother down to their kids, a feeling of pure social decay permeates.

It's this duality that makes the film interesting in my eyes. It doesn't shove its message in your face but it's there for you to discover if you want to take the time. If you just want to spend some time watching excessive cussing and laughing at all the ludicrous situations that unfold, then you're perfectly welcome to do that. The 18 year old me sure did!

The cynical mid-thirties me is lifting the veil of crude comedy to look what's beneath, whenever I stumble on this film in TV.

One of the greater films ever made in Greece.

A "hardcore snapshot" of Greek reality given by excellent performance from the actors.

The raw truth about the roles inside a typical family in modern Greece filmed by a unique way from Giannis Oikonomidis Dimitris,Maria,Kiki,Giorgos,Vagelis and Loukas could be our father, our mother our sister, brother or friend, our neighbour, or the the owner of the store at the corner, who always fighting with his family for no reason. And at the end everybody is happy and they continue there lives like there's nothing happened.

Its a film about a non ordinary day of a non ordinary family that has maximum tense and zero tolerance for each other. The rhythm is furious and the shocking language keeps the interest to the highest degree. The family is totally non functional and clearly everyone has its own agenda and set of priorities A hot day in the middle of the summer is the perfect ignition for a non stop blame game between members of middle - low class family in an ugly Athenian suburb. Errikos Litsis is simply unforgettable in the role of the father as he has to cope with all members of the family without having any thing to lose any more. There are lines and scenes difficult to forget in this "slice of life" movie by Y. Economides. The language is totally sharp and some times goes to the limit but this is totally supported by the script and by the "stormy" rhythm of the film. Surely the best film of Y. Economides and one of the surprises of the Greek independent cinema.

Great movie ! Great Acting ! Economidis made a powerful real film - everybody has to see that unique Greek production.One of the best Greek movies I've seen the last years unfortunately without the success it deserves!

Everybody at "Spirtokouto" lives in his own world making the leading role Dimitris(father)going crazy...

Never before such realistic movie and dialogues heard in Greek cinema!!! Erricos Litsis,Eleni Kokkidou,Aggeliki Papoulia perfect performing!

Looking forward to more Yannis Economidis