“It’s a completely immersive Greek tragedy”: Romain Gavras on Athena

There’s an intoxicating pulse that underscores the very essence of Athena. It’s both frenzied chaos and moments of poignant reflection; it’s the raw authenticity of Parisian suburbs tinged with the weight of a Greek tragedy. Crafted by the visionary Romain Gavras, son of the legendary Costa, Athena is a testament to the zeitgeist of our times, echoing the complex layers of societal justice, upheaval and the visceral human emotions that come with it.

From its arresting opening shot – a ten-minute masterclass of technical brilliance – to the evocative score that deepens its tragic atmosphere, the film takes its audience on a tumultuous journey alongside its characters. It’s a work that resonates, not just because of its pertinent narrative of social unrest but because it successfully taps into the universal threads of brotherhood, ideology and human resilience.

In our exclusive chat, Romain Gavras talks about the challenges and triumphs of creating such a complex cinematic experience. The French director shares insights into the advanced camera techniques, the inspiration drawn from his Greek heritage and the dramatic musical score that accompanies the film’s unpredictable chronicle. With an unyielding commitment to powerful storytelling, Gavras provides a detailed look into how Athena was meticulously brought to life.

Filippo L’Astorina, the Editor

Athena is released on Netflix on 23^rd September 2022. Read our review here.

Read more reviews from our Venice Film Festival 2022 coverage here.

For further information about the event visit the Venice Film Festival website here.