zorba the greek

i didn't have any expectations for this movie. i assume awards from the academy meant more in 1964 than they do today, so that seemed to bode well. it won for best cinematography, supporting actress, and art direction. it was also nominated for best picture, actor, director and writing.

that said, it was entertaining. it started off unclear and slow but the two main characters quickly developed into an odd couple style pairing, with zorba living life to the fullest and basil being more timid about doing anything, especially living his life. zorba's free-spirited lifestyle takes over most of the movie, but he also has a way of demanding that fun be had. his character is developed enough that he doesn't just seem like a loose canon.

along with basil's more melancholy attitude is a darker sub-plot involving a young widow and the men of the town in crete. i don't want to divulge too much information but at one point i could only stare and repeat, "what?!" tom asked from the other room if i needed to turn off the movie. this subplot makes my head spin and confuses me to no end, so if you have any insight please email me, or post a comment.

this one dark angle changes the feeling of the movie for me, and yet i enjoyed the story and the characters and especially the setting. it's a good story of living life to the fullest with a good caution that goes along with it. check it out from your local library.