Wake Up, Poor Periklis!

A factory owner, Periklis, is trapped in a cycle of obsession and self-destruction, haunted by his past failures and a decaying relationship. As his life unravels, he grapples with societal pressures and his own inner demons. The film explores themes of alienation, the consequences of unchecked ambition, and the struggle for meaning in a modernizing Greece.

Nikos Koundouros's 'Wake Up, Poor Periklis!' is considered a significant work of Greek cinema, praised for its symbolic depth and Koundouros's distinctive visual style. It resonated with critics for its unflinching portrayal of the anxieties of the era and its complex protagonist, though some found its allegorical nature dense. Audience reception was generally positive, appreciating its artistic merit and thematic relevance.

• Praised for its potent symbolism and Nikos Koundouros's signature visual flair.
• Lauded for its insightful exploration of existential dread and societal critique within a Greek context.
• Some found the film's allegorical layers to be opaque, requiring deep interpretation.

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The film was awarded at the Thessaloniki International Film Festival in 1969, with Manos Katrakis receiving an award for Best Actor.

The film's title is a direct reference to the protagonist's state of moral and existential crisis, urging him to confront his reality.