How the War Started on My Island
How the War Started on My Island

Movie spotlight

How the War Started on My Island

1997
Movie
97 min
Croatian

At the beginning of 1991, Yugoslav army did not acknowledge Croatian's independence, and still holding few military barracks in Croatia. Gajski travels to an island to get his son out of the army. Locals have besieged the barracks and organized a festival to try with singing and recitals to get major Aleksa and his soldiers to surrender, but Aleksa has explosives thru the barracks and wants to blow up the island.

Insights

IMDb7.3/10
Director: Yannis EconomidesGenres: Comedy, Drama

Plot Summary

In a remote Greek island village, the annual carnival is the backdrop for a simmering feud between two families. The rivalry, fueled by a forgotten incident from the past, escalates comically as the villagers prepare for the festivities. Amidst the playful chaos and drunken celebrations, the personal vendettas threaten to overshadow the communal spirit of the island.

Critical Reception

The film was a critical success in Greece, praised for its dark humor, sharp social commentary, and authentic portrayal of island life. It resonated with audiences for its ability to blend laugh-out-loud moments with poignant observations on human nature and conflict.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its unique blend of dark comedy and social critique.

  • Lauded for its authentic depiction of Greek island village life and traditions.

  • Appreciated for its exploration of long-standing feuds and their often absurd consequences.

Google audience: No specific Google user reviews or ratings are readily available for this film.

Awards & Accolades

Won the FIPRESCI Prize at the Thessaloniki International Film Festival.

Fun Fact

The film's original title translates from Greek as 'Pou Petaxe T'Asteri' (Where the Star Fell), but it was released internationally as 'How the War Started on My Island'.

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