Synopsis
Pity uncovers the layered complications of addiction through the prism of a love story and social commentary. It centers on the self-destructive empathy that pours from the protagonist after he suffers an irrational loss. The author deconstructs his addictive tendencies as he spirals into detached and disconnected behavior. Understanding the pitiful situation the protagonist finds himself in, the audience may be left wondering where they drew the line between selfishness and self-care. Furthermore, they may delight in watching that same protagonist redeem himself, albeit after committing diabolical deeds such as murder – all for morally justified ends.
Key Themes
- The Commodification of Emotion: The film questions how emotions like pity or grief are socially manipulated, consumed, and even weaponized.
- Absurdity of Human Behavior: Like many Greek New Wave films, it adopts a deadpan, surreal tone to expose the oddities of human behavior.
- Isolation and Narcissism: The protagonist’s self-centeredness and increasing alienation from reality are central to the film’s critique of modern individualism.
Cast
- Yannis Drakopoulos as the Lawyer: Drakopoulos delivers a masterful performance as the unnamed protagonist, capturing both the desperation and the deadpan absurdity of his character.
- Evi Saoulidou as the Wife: Saoulidou brings warmth to the role of the wife, serving as the emotional counterpoint to the protagonist’s cold manipulations.
- Panos Koronis and Makis Papadimitriou in supporting roles: Both actors enhance the film with their subtle yet impactful performances, contributing to the film’s layered exploration of relationships and social interactions.
Critical Reception
Pity was first screened at the Sundance Film Festival of 2018 within the World Cinema Dramatic competition and it was praised for its unique approach to its subject matter. Many critics praised Babis Makridis’s direction and the top-notch screenplay which on one hand was laced with humor but on the other was starkly grim. Nonetheless, its unorthodox plot structure and absurdist satire did not sit well with all audiences since the dark satire and slow pace of the film was a challenge for some.
Rotten Tomatoes: 78% (Critics’ Score)
Metacritic: 68 (Generally favorable reviews)
While some compared it to Yorgos Lanthimos’ work (a fellow Greek New Wave filmmaker), Pity distinguishes itself with a more intimate and narrowly focused narrative.
Cultural and Social Significance
This movie is a perfect example of Greek New Wave cinema and its examination of themes such as alienation, dysfunctional social relationships, and existential horror ‘Pity’ is a work of potent social critique, underscoring the modern obsession with self-presentation and the performative nature of emotions. It is a powerful film, let down only by its deadpan humour and witty philosophical depth.
In today’s world dominated by social media, people publicize their feelings for the sake of validation and as a result pity, sympathy, and the likes become currency, allowing one to pull other people’s emotions for capital.
Behind-the-Scenes Insights
- The collaboration between Makridis and Filippou was instrumental in shaping the film’s tone. Filippou’s signature writing style—marked by sparse dialogue and dark humor—elevates the narrative.
- The cinematography by Konstantinos Koukoulios reflects the protagonist’s stark emotional landscape, with cold, desaturated visuals that underline the story’s bleak tone.
