RUINS WITHIN RUINS, 9min., Greece
Directed by Lefteris Parasyris
A group of dancers positions themselves between the ancient and modern ruins of the island of Crete, Greece. Drawing inspiration from its rich heritage, they craft a series of kinetic forms and patterns influenced by folk dances and Minoan frescoes. These installations, whether harmonising with or contrasting against the island's culture, offer reflections on historical memory and the Cretan identity.

https://www.instagram.com/lefteris.parasyris/

Get to know the filmmaker:

1. What motivated you to make this film?

This film was a tribute to the island of Crete and its complex identity. It started as a photographic project but I quickly realised that these beautiful but peculiar locations would be the perfect "character" in a dance film.

2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film?

About four years. This was my first dance film so it took a while to find the right team and bring people together.

3. How would you describe your film in two words!?

Blimey, that's hard. Meditative Oscillation

4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?

The funding part as usual. I did the editing myself and that was also quite complicated. This particular film required extremely meticulous and time consuming editing.

5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?

I was pleasantly surprised some of the audience got to experience the feelings I wanted them to experience through this film. A few of the comments were also very specific and well thought and I really appreciated this.

6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films?

I always loved film. I spent my entire childhood watching all kinds of films. But I think the pivotal moment was around 13 when I watched Vertigo and Rosemary's baby. I was like "Wow, I want to be part of this universe."

7. What film have you seen the most in your life?

I made my thesis on Ingmar Bergman back in my uni days which means I must have spent about six months watching his films. I've probably seen Persona more than 10 times. Rather than that, I love a good horror film. I must have seen The Shining a bunch of times for sure...

8. What other elements of the festival experience can we and other festivals implement to satisfy you and help you further your filmmaking career?

Having a bit of feedback is great. Most of the time, the filmmakers can't attend the festival so in the end it feels slightly impersonal. I think a way to get something more out of it, is to connect the selected filmmakers virtually. Perhaps create a little platform or a social media group for the filmmakers where they can all come in contact or see each other's films via password protected links.

9. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How has your experiences been working on the festival platform site?

It's great actually. Once you get the hang of it and figure out all the little details. It's kind of a luxury to have a platform where you can organise your festival strategy. I imagine it must have been so hard back in the day.

10. What is your favorite meal?

I love a good cheeseburger...But I also really like "Gemista", a traditional vegan Greek dish with stuffed vegetables. The perfect summer dish.

11. What is next for you? A new film?

I'm in preproduction of a music video at the moment. Later in the year, I'm embarking into a new dance film journey with the same choreographer as Ruins Within Ruins. I'm very excited for our next collaboration.