Elektra

Greece (1962): Drama

This is an extraordinary film from a visual and dramatic standpoint that unfortunately too often plays like a "Cliff's Notes" version of Euripedes' work (although, in all fairness, it should be that the Michael Cacoyannis' screenplay is only "based on" the classical play). The essential structure is there: Agamemnon's murder, the banishment of Orestes, Elektra's marriage, the reuniting of the grown children, the double murder. But by clipping away much of the Euripedean dialogue, much depth of characterization is lost. The principles become one-dimensional, with only hints of the complexity which makes the story so overwhelming. However, the stark cinematography and fine acting make this film eminently watchable, particularly at the climatic matricide sequence. Cacoyannis directs for Finos-JN Film. Cast also features Irene Papas in the title role, with Yannis Fertis, Aleka Katselli, Theano Ioannidou, Notis Peryalis and Takis Emmanuel. (Tony Adam, IMDb)

· Foreign Language Film Award 1962: (Greece) Michael Cacoyannis, producer.

1 nomination