Watch The Red Lanterns

The Red Lanterns is a classic Greek drama film released in 1963, directed by Vasilis Georgiadis, who also co-wrote the screenplay with Alekos Sakellarios. The film stars the legendary Greek actress Jenny Karezi, along with Giorgos Foundas and Dimitris Papamichael in the lead roles. Set in the early 20th century, The Red Lanterns depicts the lives of women living in a poor, working-class neighborhood in Athens. The film focuses on the hardships and struggles of these women, who are forced to work long hours in factory jobs or as domestic servants to provide for themselves and their families.

Karezi plays the lead role of Marika, a young woman who works in a match-making factory. Marika is engaged to her childhood sweetheart, Andreas (Foundas), who is a sailor and only visits her sporadically. Despite their love, their relationship is strained due to the distance between them and the pressures of their difficult lives.

The plot thickens when Marika is courted by a wealthy man named Kostas (Papamichael), who is persistent in his pursuit of her. Kostas is twice Marika's age and is married with children, but he offers her a life of luxury and comfort that she has never known. Marika is torn between her love for Andreas and the temptation of a better life.

As the story unfolds, the lives of Marika, Andreas, and Kostas become increasingly intertwined. The film explores themes of love, betrayal, and social class, as the characters navigate their way through the tumultuous events of their lives.

The Red Lanterns is a beautifully shot film, with stunning cinematography that captures the gritty reality of life in a poor Athens neighbourhood. The film's use of colour is particularly noteworthy, as the vibrant red lanterns that line the streets serve as a powerful symbol of hope and endurance in the face of adversity.

The performances in The Red Lanterns are outstanding, with Karezi delivering a nuanced and emotional portrayal of Marika's struggles. Foundas and Papamichael also give strong performances, bringing depth and complexity to their respective roles.

Overall, The Red Lanterns is a timeless classic of Greek cinema, with a compelling storyline and richly drawn characters. The film's exploration of themes that remain relevant today, such as social inequality and the complexities of human relationships, make it a must-see for lovers of drama and classic cinema.