I Love Greece (2022) Movie Script
- A snail?
- No.
I don't know.
Jean, will we have a good vacation?
Let's see... I mean, yes.
- Promise?
- Yes. We're playing now.
Come on, guess.
- A bale of hay.
- A bale of hay, really?
I don't know, it's hard!
After all the training we've done,
we've leveled up.
Promise me our vacation will be good.
Yes, I promise.
OK, what about now?
- I know.
- What?
A plate of spaghetti.
- Well done!
- I knew it.
The student has surpassed the master.
Damn, wait, I don't have my phone.
- Marina, I don't have my phone.
- Jean...
- It's Nana.
- Huh?
That's...
Nana Mouskouri.
She was a big part of my childhood.
Look in your bag.
Come on, let's follow her.
Damn.
Wait. Marina!
Shit.
Marina.
So there's nothing we can do?
No.
What, they don't have it?
She's lying.
Are you serious?
The plane's gone.
How can we reach them?
Really? And what if there were a bomb
on board? Huh?
Can't reach them then?
It just crashes?
Can't she call the cockpit?
The cockpit?
I suppose you can't call
the pilot directly?
No.
Except if there's a bomb alert.
Of course not, it's not possible.
She's crazy.
Ask her to lend me a phone,
Please, "Marinaki mou."
Excuse me,
my friend is very upset.
Can he make a call?
My phone is dead.
Please?
Thanks.
Thank you very much.
Marina, give me the numbers
for your family.
You don't need all the numbers.
It's ringing.
Thanks.
I'm not even sure I remember.
Come on, remember.
Damn, voicemail.
We just arrived at Athens airport.
Nice flight. Lunch was a bit off.
They served us a very spongy dessert
with a weird sauce.
I don't fly for the food, after all.
And you're not calling
to give him a report.
Great, thanks.
I think the pockets on my pants
are too big,
so I lost it somewhere,
no idea where.
I'll give you the numbers
you can reach me on if you need.
You have Marina's.
Just one question...
What's it like living in Athens?
I forgot.
6831239759...
+30 is the code.
- You can dial 003069789060...
- Hang up.
When I close my eyes, I see
those cakes your mom makes.
Which ones?
You know,
the big sweet white loukoums.
Shortbread.
Hope I don't get sick.
Even the wind is warm.
Why didn't they park closer?
This is ridiculous.
We're almost downtown by now.
They parked at home.
Anyway, you should've told her.
She's going to kill you.
It's fine.
I see them.
Hey, Marina!
Do I look OK? Not too ugly?
No.
No.
My brother-in-law!
How are you?
Oh, the suitcase!
Who's here, huh?
Look who just got here.
Andreas, Kallisti.
- How are you?
My little Marina!
Thanasis!
Hi, Andreas!
You don't get too burned at night?
Your uncle is trying to ask
if you get too hot at night.
Come on, let's go.
Is that your car?
Yes, we sold the other Toyota.
Too many taxes.
No, my love, get in. Let's go!
So, this is the cover
for the sui... No!
No, it's fine.
Come on, get in!
- I'll keep this with me.
- Yeah.
That's it.
You're quite dressed up
for the airport.
No.
Everything OK, honey?
Voicemail.
- Thanks, Lia.
- You're welcome.
I'm so happy to be here.
You'll ruin your lungs, buddy.
So, how's work going for you two?
Aristide is so proud to have
a doctor in the family.
It's fine. You know, overall,
the French are hypochondriacs.
But I'd like to get more involved.
Doctors Without Borders.
Jean, how's the real estate project?
His first real contract.
It's a building order in Boulogne.
But now, it's...
for the developer's answer.
We're sort of panicking.
Yes, I confirm.
What? What's he talking about?
His work.
Panic.
So, no vacation for you then?
We'll see.
It's a bit tough right now.
Are you still coming to the island
next week
for your cousin's wedding?
Jean, that's not a vacation.
Meanwhile, we'll suffocate in Athens.
When exactly are you leaving?
- Tomorrow morning.
- Really?
- Yeah, from Piraeus.
- That was quick.
You booked the tickets
with our agency, I hope.
Thanasis!
What? We need the business, honey.
Yes, we got the tickets with your...
No, sorry. Actually, we...
I'm sorry.
We didn't get them with your agency,
because we...
I don't really know why.
We were waiting for you.
- So, how's the agency?
- Well...
Tourism hasn't been great
since the season started.
That's great.
No.
No, "hasn't" been great, Jean.
"Not great." Oh, damn.
With all those refugees
on the islands...
No, Jean, that's not the only reason.
Yeah, and without tourism,
they almost fired Lia and me.
But hey, we're going
to Santorini in September
to write about the Akrotiri ruins.
We advertise as best we can
with what we have.
So ruins, in other words.
You look weird.
No, I'm fine.
- Doesn't my sister look weird?
- No more than usual.
No, stop.
I know you.
What's wrong?
What?
- What's happening?
- I'm sorry.
- How awful.
- I know.
What?
The funeral is in an hour, actually.
- When did it happen?
- Last week.
What's wrong?
Last week?
And you tell me an hour before?
This family is insane.
Thanasis?
Their cousin...
How to explain it...
She hanged herself.
- Are you crazy?
- What?
Why didn't anyone tell me?
We didn't want to worry you.
That's all.
- What's up with your cousin?
- She's dead.
Oh my... Dead.
It's absurd that you didn't tell me.
I could've, written a note,
done something, I don't know.
We weren't that close.
OK, fine. You're right.
OK?
But since you didn't call last week,
we didn't want to call you for that.
It would've been too sad.
Isn't it sad now?
You were coming anyway.
It was for your own good.
For my good? And last year,
the baptism?
Oh, right. You forgot
to tell me about that too.
- It's a mess.
- Yeah.
It's always been like this, Jean.
Always.
Did you really know your cousin?
Huh?
This should be fine.
- It has flowers on it.
- Yes, I know.
So, what are you wearing?
No, nothing.
Nope...
I'll jinx the groom.
- You're exaggerating.
- No.
I'll check in my parents' closet.
Irini.
Aren't you at the funeral yet?
Funerals annoy me.
I came to tell you...
that I need money.
Really?
OK, but how much?
- Everything you have.
- Really? Everything I have?
- How much do you need?
- Maybe 100 euros.
I'm asking you,
because I know
you won't ask questions.
Here.
Thanks.
One thing's for sure...
I'll never pay it back.
- I expected as much.
- Oh, Jean.
Thanks.
Irini, what are all these boxes?
- These?
- Yes.
- We're selling, Jean. We're leaving.
- Really?
Yes, owning a home
is too expensive now.
I'm off then.
Got some personal stuff to do.
You smoke now?
Oh, come on. Just one.
You OK?
Fine, just a bit stressed.
I hope I won't cry too much.
I'm stressed too. I have
a pinched nerve in my neck.
- How are you, my sweetheart?
- Fine.
You absolutely have to go visit
Yorgos, honey.
He has a problem with his intestines.
Dad...
Not now.
OK, honey.
Nice to see you.
It's awful.
You could've told me.
- It wasn't the right time.
- How was the trip?
Great. We're happy to be here.
Well, not here.
I mean, the suicide is awful,
Marina's so upset that she's dead.
Stop saying "dead" all the time.
I heard about what's happening.
I'm thinking of your parents.
At their age...
Having to leave their home
almost overnight...
Such a beautiful house...
It's awful.
And to leave it for what?
An apartment? Some dump?
Anyway...
everyone has their fate.
- Yes, Jean, hello.
- So...
- Listen...
- Yeah.
As I expected, the lofts
aren't going to work at all.
Damn, no way. Why?
He said from the start
that he wanted studios.
I knew it wouldn't work.
You were sure, huh.
Sometimes, you have to take risks.
What's up? You there?
I mean, it's not because
we do three crappy studios
that the firm will take off
and we'll get into a magazine.
That doesn't matter.
He doesn't want them, period.
We need to redo the plans
or he'll give the project
to someone else.
So, we'll...
Great.
That's a great attitude.
I mean, now we're really heading...
Wait. Listen to me, OK?
Look at this.
They can't get rid of these!
Postcards from their friends.
Postcards from their friends.
Yeah, but... I'm keeping them still.
Mommy...
What, my love?
Yes, sweetheart.
Put this on so you don't catch cold.
Come here.
You know what's sad, Kallistoula mou?
If you die,
I won't know
until I'm back in Athens.
Are you stupid or what?
Can't even joke anymore...
It's a mess.
What?
I have to redo
all the interior design.
The lofts won't fly.
he didn't sell them.
Didn't the guy say
he didn't want lofts from the start?
No. Well, yes. But it doesn't matter.
Now, I have to start all over.
What do you want me to say?
Nothing.
I know you know
your man will revolutionize
global architecture, so it's fine.
Go inside, honey.
Good girl.
You OK?
That's it! Go see Uncle Jean.
I want to move back here.
- Sorry?
- But...
When I talk to Jean about it,
he shuts down.
Of course, he just got his first job.
Yeah, well, it's not that big
of a job either, so...
He could find one here.
We're in a crisis.
Find here? What don't you get?
There's nothing here.
Come on, it's fine.
I just want to leave.
You? Leave?
Wait, leaving Greece now
would be giving up.
Giving up?
Are you serious?
Come live here with two kids,
then we'll talk.
What's that? Look!
OK.
- One, two, three.
- I swallowed the pit.
Come on!
Mom, we said over there.
I'm sorry.
It's OK.
That's life, honey.
We can't control everything.
I'm fed up with the dust.
Do you know what the house collects?
Of course.
I'll call your mom
from across the apartment,
and she'll finally answer me.
Finally!
Throw it all away like that?
When you're gone, what will we have?
It's not that bad.
If you really want,
we'll go through the boxes again.
Let's enjoy being together.
It's been a tough day.
It's like with my cousin...
If you had told me,
we could have done something,
chipped in, I don't know.
But your cousin, she was proud.
She never complained.
How could we have known?
- It's sad.
- Yes.
- Of course, it is.
- Cheers!
Cheers!
- Cheers.
- Cheers.
Anyway, your country has been going
through lots of crises
in recent years, huh?
World War II, the civil war,
the dictatorship,
now this economic crisis...
It's a disaster. And I'm not
even talking about the dead girl.
Jean, please!
We've had tough times,
my dear Jean, it's true.
We've always pulled through.
It might take years,
but we'll get through.
But it won't be thanks
to our leaders, that's for sure.
They're all corrupt.
No.
All bought.
No, our sellouts aren't
the only ones to blame.
Do we decide?
Others decide.
The Troika decrees
and others agree, Aristide.
As long as Europe has no balls,
our Greece is doomed.
Well said, Grandma.
That's enough.
We wake up with it,
eat with it, sleep with it.
Can we just be together
without damned politics?
What's this?
Perfect.
Looks weird.
Eggplant.
Thank you.
But you haven't eaten anything.
Please, finish it.
No, thanks, I'm good.
He's a vegetarian, the poor guy.
Don't you get it?
Come on, Jean.
For me, just give this a taste.
Don't force him. If he doesn't
want it, he doesn't want it.
Jean's always been
your favorite, Yaya.
Yeah, I like him.
Plus, he's handsome.
Too bad... you're so unshaven.
It's trendy.
Here, a tiny bite.
There's very little meat.
- Very, very little.
- Just a tiny bit. There you go.
- So?
- Oh, yeah. Wow!
With some pita?
Someone's ringing.
Maybe it's for me.
Is it a French number?
Oh right. Just to warn you...
Jean gave your numbers
to his partner.
No, it's my lover.
- Your lover?
- Yes, my lover.
I'll call him back tomorrow.
A little desire
never hurt anyone, right?
True.
He's breathtakingly beautiful.
You can't imagine
how he satisfies me in bed...
all day long.
Show some modesty!
Well done!
It's great to be together.
It doesn't happen every day.
Cheers!
We miss you a lot.
I miss you too.
You know what? Come with us
to the island tomorrow.
Why not?
Sure, we'll go
to the wedding together.
Shall we go?
The house is big enough too.
- Yeah, well...
- Great, let's go.
To a great summer!
Is this legal?
Doesn't matter.
Honey?
I don't think it's Jean's thing.
Oh, yes, he'll love it.
Of course, he'll love it.
Where's the little fish?
Take it.
Thanasis, leave him alone.
It's great.
I'm not going spearfishing
with Thanasis.
No kiss?
Wait, your phone.
Answer it.
Hi, Marina. How are you?
Great.
- We were going to bed.
- OK, then...
Hi, Jean. I'll be quick.
No worries, we have time.
I was just thinking about the plans.
You're on vacation, I'm in Paris.
It's best if I handle it.
Right? It's a good idea.
We're thinking of you
for the delivery. It's soon.
Thanks, Marina.
Cool. Good night, then.
Talk soon.
Yeah, talk to you soon.
He's going to mess up.
- No.
- Yes, definitely.
What if we had a baby?
Not tonight. Something's off,
my stomach really hurts.
You know, like last time in Brittany.
Yes, like in Brittany,
Normandy, Italy.
And almost every first Friday
of the month.
Good night.
Oh, Marina! You...
you scared me.
Mom, you're just in time.
I had nightmares, I can't sleep.
How much is your monthly pension?
Well, Dad's.
I'm reviewing your accounts, and...
To see if you can keep the house.
I think I can find something.
If you give up health insurance...
Because at your age, cancer or not,
we don't do chemo.
I'm a doctor, I know.
So, paying a fortune
for three Tylenol
is pointless.
One, two, three, four.
Honey, I think there's a dead body
on the deck.
You should never have come
to the funeral.
You know, I've thought about it.
I think my parents
should do Airbnb with the house.
You know Airbnb?
Yeah, a bit.
It would cover some taxes
and maintenance.
But you'll need to help Mom,
or she won't manage.
Honestly, I think...
I could stay here to help them a bit.
This ice cream is just...
It's Greece.
Sorry, I think I'm expected.
I sent you a message.
OK, thanks. Maybe we could...
I see you brought the nanny too.
Gives you a bit more time
for you and your wife.
No, it's the sister... Anyway,
let's go.
You're forgetting your...
My binder and my coffee.
Summer is always a bit tough for me.
Look at this house!
Amazing!
It's going to be tight, though.
Here's the living room.
It's quite spacious.
The sofa is... convertible.
Perfect. Jean, we'll sleep here,
so you can rest.
No way, Mom.
We'll take the office,
and you take the bedroom.
Jean won't work.
What about your sister and the kids?
No, no, it's fine.
- Don't worry, Jean.
- Yeah?
We'll sleep in the living room.
I think we've covered everything.
No, we forgot the terrace and pool.
Oh, right, the pool, I forgot.
Is the pool water
being delivered tomorrow?
Cut it with the English.
The pool, I said.
- Oh yes, the pool.
- Yes.
We couldn't do it
for this summer. Sorry.
It didn't rain this winter,
so there's a water shortage.
Well... then you should've told me!
Jean, it's not a big deal.
The sea is right there.
Yes, it is.
A pool without water
is ridiculous. Look.
If I'd known, I'd have rented
something closer to the sea.
We're so far from the beach.
She's crazy, that woman.
I'll sue her.
That's what she'll get.
An empty pool, Thanasis,
ever seen that?
For the rent you charge,
it's ridiculous!
Just fill the damn pool.
In my dream...
I went to a clinic
and the doctor examined me.
He said that everything
dealing with sexuality...
was in the ear.
Aren't you going to say something?
What should I tell them?
They're kids. They're playing.
What's wrong, my love?
Where's daddy? Where is he?
Is he inflating the pool? Yes...
He took a big syringe
and poked my ear.
And then...
I felt... wonderful.
I got into my car...
and I just drove.
I drove like never before.
And I saw a hitchhiker.
I stopped, he got in...
and it was Jean.
- Jean?
- Jean.
Jean.
But he didn't seem to recognize me.
So, at one point,
I don't know why, I told him...
What's it called?
Yup...
More apartments sold
to foreigners this year
for seasonal rentals. It's a shame.
And Greeks don't know where to live.
Yes.
Can you believe it?
Yes!
- So?
- I asked him,
"Are you hard?"
And what did he say?
He answered,
"No, it's you who's hard."
"It's you who's hard."
- And then?
- I woke up.
OK.
I don't know.
It's complicated.
"No... it's you who's hard"...
I mean, it's both clear and...
It can't just be about an erection.
No, it's about desire,
not just an erection.
Tell me, Marina,
have you forgotten your Greek?
Come on, Dad!
It's been 20 years!
My little French girl.
Mom.
OK.
Want some water?
You need to drink water.
What's she doing?
- You OK?
- Yes.
Tell your mom
not to cook all the time.
- We can go to the tavern.
- No, it's fine.
I told her to cook light, no meat.
OK.
Shall we take
a little boat ride together?
No... I have too much work.
- Later?
- Aren't you supposed to be off work?
You're not mad at me?
- Marinaki.
- What?
Yaya's not doing so well.
What?
She left everything I made for her
untouched in the refrigerator.
She's not eating.
Nothing.
You know, she was a mom before you.
Yeah, but still.
What's going to happen?
Have some cake.
These cakes are amazing.
It's rich.
It's not rich. It's sweet.
Listen...
"Platia Amerikis,
Guess how much?
150,000 euros.
Jean, you could even make
a big studio for your models.
How much are you selling our house fo.
Our house? 250,000.
What?
You're giving it away!
You can't sell it at that price.
Have you thought
about the Airbnb thing?
Thanasis, Airbnb.
OK, we're leaving after breakfast.
- Did you take the car?
- Yes.
Thanasis, did you take the parasol?
Yes! I did everything!
Well done.
Did you put on
your swimsuit, sweetie?
When is she going to talk, that kid?
It's fine, Dad.
It's fine.
He's right.
Two years and not a word.
Leave the child alone.
We'll have to take care of it.
- Are you serious?
- Aristide!
She'll talk when she's ready.
I walked without crawling. So what?
To each their own pace.
She's right.
- You were an exception.
- What changed?
Leave me alone!
Jean,
these kids are too spoiled.
Don't you think?
In Greece, generally?
No?
Aristide,
the real estate agent.
Put it on speaker.
Hello, Mr. Kostas. Any news?
Hello. We have a new offer.
It's less than the asking price,
but it'll work with mutual efforts.
OK. Who's the buyer?
A Greek businessman from London
who often visits Athens
and is looking for a place.
Listen, I thought we said
a family as the main residents.
I know, but...
No...
My answer is no.
No.
Excuse me.
The answer is no.
Find another buyer. Sorry.
Have a nice day. See you.
Goodbye.
OK, goodbye.
When you want a child,
you'll have to stop that.
- You're a doctor, you should know.
- Again...
He's right.
Look.
She smokes like a chimney.
You're 35.
So what?
What about menopause?
What are you talking about?
Come on!
What's with you this morning?
Kids.
Thanasis, come on! Kids...
It's fine.
I got it, stop.
Marina, not now.
Not in your nephews' room.
I'd like to work since it's quiet.
Hey, everyone.
What an atmosphere.
How are you, Irini?
It was so hot in Athens.
Hello, sir.
This is Andreas the Great.
My lover.
Hi, Jean!
Jean.
OK, so the apartment
on the third floor...
Yeah?
- The one in the middle, I mean.
- Yeah. What?
Why's the kitchen next to a bathroom?
What's the logic? It should be
on the opposite side.
These are studios, Jean.
We use the water drainage.
We don't really have a choice.
Well, yes, we always have a choice.
It's really ugly like this.
We need to give these studios
some volume.
I mean...
OK, I'll let you redo
the ones on the 3rd.
Anything to say about the 4th floor?
This is ridiculous.
Hello? Jean?
Jean, can you hear me?
Are you there?
What? Sorry.
Should I approve the 4th?
- Thanasis.
- Jean?
Come here! She's all...
What brilliance, what flame.
In my heart.
As if you cast a spell on me.
Sweet Fragosyriote.
As if you cast a spell on me.
Sweet Fragosyriote.
Come on, yaya.
- I'll come to meet you.
- Come on!
Down on the beach.
I'd like to get from you.
Lots of caresses and kisses.
One, two, three. Stop.
Should I put it down?
Careful.
One, two, three.
Wow, you're a magician!
Shit!
Fuck, not the 4th-floor studios.
Shit.
Shit.
It's ruined.
It'll dry.
Wait. Where is everyone?
Out.
I'll never make it.
Of course you will, Jean.
Take care of you both a bit.
The rest will follow.
Come on...
As they say in Greek:
"Keep your head up."
Yeah, maybe.
Oh, damn.
Dammit!
Who was the genius that did this?
This family is really starting
to piss me off!
Oh my God,
how could I have done that?
I was sure they'd dry much faster.
You know we don't mess
with Jean's stuff.
Good night.
He doesn't care at all...
What time is it?
Thanks for waiting for me.
Jean!
Marina.
Your papers, really...
Doesn't matter anymore.
What does matter
is that, tomorrow, you and I...
are going out to sea.
I rented a boat.
You rented a boat?
Yes, I did.
But the wedding is tomorrow.
I know.
But we'll leave early.
We'll be back in time.
Right?
- Right?
- OK.
Yes?
Perfect.
Cheers!
We can poach with the darts!
Poach? What are you going after,
honey? Eggs?
No, "fish."
"Fishing."
Go spearfishing.
Not poaching.
Come on, Jean, get in.
It's nice once you're in.
I got stung by something.
And then, you go all around...
Like this.
Pour a bit out.
Look.
Then, you eat it.
Here, try.
Ouch, yes, it's prickly.
So, now I...
Oh yeah, it's soft.
We're supposed to eat
the orange part?
It's good, right?
No, it's good!
It is.
Taste it again.
Reminds me of when I was little.
I spent hours underwater
fishing for them.
Shall we go?
OK.
Can't do it?
Did you check the engine?
No.
I didn't rent the boat.
Let me try.
We're out of gas.
What?
Oh no.
Where's my phone?
- What?
- My phone.
There's no signal here.
- Look.
- It's OK. We'll row.
What? Row? But where to?
To the shore.
Row to the shore?
Wait, Marina, calm down.
I can't think right now.
"Row to the shore" means nothing.
Everything's mixed up,
the shore, the sea urchins,
I don't feel OK at all.
No.
I can't take it anymore.
You take over now.
No, Marina.
Marina, I'm rowing. OK?
Stop.
What?
Why are you so cranky?
Come on.
It's an adventure, it's funny.
No, it's not funny.
- Give me the oars.
- No.
Yes.
You're making me look
like the killjoy.
It's my turn.
It's my turn.
- Why are you crying?
- I'm not crying.
What's wrong?
You know very well.
If I knew, I wouldn't ask.
You complain every two seconds.
You don't like this country,
you find everything dirty or ugly.
Some people would kill
to be in your place.
Not now, I don't think so.
And you always criticize my family,
my sister, my dad, my mom.
or architecture.
Ridiculous.
- That's ridiculous.
- Really?
I love them, your grandma is my idol.
So what's the problem then?
What is it?
I'll tell you since you
don't have the guts.
- You don't want me anymore.
- Stop it.
We make love twice a year.
The world doesn't revolve
around your worries
and whims, Marina.
Always the same thing...
"Let's move to Greece."
"Dinner with my parents."
I miss my family.
"Let's go to my cousin's funeral,
whom I didn't know,
"and we make love right now,
on the floor."
You're being unfair.
All you do is ask me
if I mind eating meatballs,
- Thanks a lot.
- You're such an idiot.
No, I'm not an idiot,
I'm at my wits' end.
Right... It's so hard to vacation
in a luxury house with a pool
and a maid cooking for you all day.
Poor thing.
Fuck!
You don't get it at all!
What's wrong? Are you insane?
Yeah, I'm insane.
I'm completely insane.
Have you ever once asked
how I was doing?
I don't know, how's my job going.
Have you ever worried about me
even just once, Marina?
Can't you see how bad I feel?
I've been feeling awful... for months
and you can't even see it.
I'm so angry with you, because...
I feel alone. Get it?
OK.
Then there's no reason
to stay together.
Dammit!
It's been an hour. An hour.
You can't count on anything
in this country.
What am I supposed to do?
"We can't pay our debts."
No wonder we can't.
A bus would need to be on time first.
Hey, buddy.
How are you?
I'm great, thanks. What do you want?
Nothing. Just calling.
Jean, you never just call me. No.
Yes, I do.
No, you don't.
Listen, Jean.
Listen, I can't take it anymore,
it's too much.
I mean... I'm dreaming of you, OK?
You know what I mean?
- What?
- That you call...
"How are the models coming along?"
- I can't take it anymore.
- Wait, no...
No, listen. What you're doing...
You're stressing me out.
- No, wait.
- You call me seven times a day!
That's absurd.
I have a life too.
Hi, Maria.
Hi, Margarita.
Maria?
Hey!
Hey!
Mom.
Things are really bad.
How do you know
when it's over with someone?
Mom, are you OK?
No, not at all!
You're four hours late.
See the state I'm in?
I'm not your maid
or your therapist!
Got it?
Mom, are you losing it?
Of course I am!
Lia...
Sorry.
What's wrong?
I'm not doing OK at all.
- What happened?
- It's nothing.
Come on, Marina.
Come on, sweetheart.
Look around you. Stop for a bit.
Stop seeing everything so dark
for just a minute.
You need to enjoy life
a little, you know.
It won't last long.
OK? I'm going back.
Oh my God!
Come on, smile a bit. I'm going back.
Just like her mom, that Lia.
I disagree.
Life needs some lightness, Jean.
You know what they say in Greece?
No.
Chickens and women with the hand.
Meaning?
The chicken...
Lia is deep in conversation
with that guy.
Look how she's smiling at him.
Jean, should I be worried?
Welcome to the club.
I didn't understand the saying.
You eat chicken
with your hands, right?
- Yes.
- And women...
Thanasis, please,
get me a glass of water.
- Sorry?
- I'm thirsty.
Wait, Aristide.
Let's be clear,
since you seem to have mixed
everything up in the last ten years.
I'm not your waiter,
but your son-in-law,
your daughter's husband.
I deserve some respect.
Don't you think?
If my demands are too much
for the Kara family, let me know.
But right now, I'm fed up!
Enough!
Anyway...
maybe it's normal for couples
to go through crises.
It's not normal at all.
No, it's not normal.
I can say it,
because Maro and I
have been married... for 40 years.
Forty years.
We've maybe argued four times total.
My love, bring me some water,
please. Maro?
What do you want?
I'm busy with my meatballs!
What's up with her?
She's had enough of you.
Women.
With hands.
Everything's inside,
so now, I tie it. Watch.
- So? Did they sell it, in the end?
- No, I don't think so.
If you knew how much I think
about it. I feel sorry for them.
How is it possible?
At least they're alive.
Damn!
- What a cheapskate.
- He's always been like that.
The crisis is a convenient excuse...
Best wishes.
Thank you very much.
You shouldn't have, Marina.
It's so important you came.
I'm so happy to be here.
Your husband?
Life together...
It's so awful.
I'll tell you in French instead.
All the endless compromises...
spending weekends together
when we agree on nothing,
being accountable,
justifying yourself.
"Why did you do it like that
and not like this?"
How pretty!
Thanks.
"Did you tidy the cupboards?"
And then, all the teaching...
date nights, eating the same thing
every night...
filing joint taxes...
eating veggies together...
scheduling sex, it's...
Sorry!
I'm being just like a "yaya,"
sharing my whole life story.
I wish you all the happiness
in the world.
Thanks.
Best wishes.
Shit, you scared me.
Are you OK, Maro?
What's up?
I don't know what's going to happen.
With what?
Greece, us.
No, it'll be fine.
Maro, get up. It'll be fine.
Everything's OK.
Jean, I keep having nightmares.
The Chinese, the Germans
are buying everything up.
Cars, porcelain, rugs, everything.
And what we should do?
We should leave our country.
- No.
- Our country, Greece.
You're not leaving your country.
You defeated the Ottoman Empire,
after all!
And you pushed back the Turks
with extreme ease, so...
The IMF won't intimidate
the cradle of civilization,
definitely not.
Last night, you know
what my husband did?
He invited them for coffee
at our place.
Who?
Who?
The Germans.
Enough about the Germans.
Anyway, I can't stand Aristide
anymore. He snores.
A visit to a good ENand it's sorted.
He can't do anything.
He can't even peel mia patata.
Teach him to peel mia patata.
That way, he'll know how.
I'm leaving him.
No, don't leave Aristide.
Yes, I am.
No, don't leave Aristide.
I swear!
No, don't leave Aristide.
I can't take it anymore.
- No.
- I can't take it anymore.
Then leave him.
What do you want me to say?
- You think?
- Yes. Well, no...
It's complicated.
And the meatballs...
An entire lifetime making meatballs!
I can't take it anymore.
I can't stand meatballs either.
I deserve better than this.
I've always thought that.
I'm not a slave.
And certainly not Aristide's.
- Exactly.
- There you go.
He never told me
I was a wonderful woman
- in all these years of marriage.
- Really?
- Yes.
- Well, then... I'm telling you.
You are a wonderful woman, Maro.
It's true.
Thanks, Jean.
Get closer for a photo. Come on.
Get closer. The couple first.
Look at me.
Look at me! Thanks.
One, two, three... Cheese!
Hello, Mr. Kostas?
Look at me.
Look this way. Ready?
- Marina, can we...
- Forget about it.
What?
That's not true,
what you said earlier.
I still desire you... a lot.
So what?
Want a smoke with me?
When life is hairy with women,
you need a smoke.
Thank you.
Time for the speech.
We'd like to thank you all
for coming to our wedding.
Your presence honors us.
Have a great evening.
Thank you very much.
Thanks!
Cheers!
What do you miss most here?
The most?
Honestly, I don't know.
Oh, yes.
The guy at the tobacco shop
who gives you change and says,
"You're pretty and smell nice."
That always made my day,
such kindness.
Sure, you like flirting.
Or the Acropolis.
Wherever you are in Athens,
there it is, magical.
Pistachios.
Outdoor cinema.
The color of the ocean in winter.
Actually, it's not Greece I miss,
it's probably... an idea of Greece.
The Greece of your childhood.
Now it's the old folks
eating pistachios at the movies.
Nothing's left of that Greece, right?
Your memories...
Would you pass me the salad, please?
Please?
Can't you stop asking me for things?
Why me?
I always have to be
the pillar of the house,
the provider, the fair one...
Dammit!
You think I like it?
I'd like to be something else too.
A bird. A rebellious bird.
- Everything OK?
- All good, sweetie.
- A rape?
- No, Margarita.
Nothing like that.
Beautiful women's voices.
Singing.
Goddesses.
The kind of women
you see once in a lifetime.
They're on a rock.
They dive in and swim to our caique.
Yorgos goes, "We have to give them
something. It's good luck."
They arrive at the caique,
each more perfect than the other.
I hand them the bag.
They take it...
and swim away singing!
That's when we realized
we saw mermaids.
I think they caught a big dead bream
and threw it back to the sea.
End of story.
The end.
My beauty.
Jean?
The girls dumped me. I want a smoke.
Andreas,
life is garbage.
Play alone and hold back your tears.
OK?
I knew you'd come back one day.
And you'd tire of your antics.
Don't slip away.
My man.
Stay.
In my arms.
Don't slip away.
My man.
Stay.
In my arms.
She dances well, right?
She got it from me.
It was an unfair breakup.
And endlessly cruel.
Don't slip away.
My man.
Stay.
In my arms.
Don't slip away.
My man.
Stay.
In my arms.
I'll tell the notary to set
a meeting to sell it.
OK, fine.
My dear Marina, I love you so much.
My dear Marina?
Yes.
We sold the house.
That's great.
It's a fresh start for you.
Sir! We've lost Andreas.
Andreas is missing.
Andreas is no longer with us.
No. Come on, let's go!
Thanasis, Lia, to the parking lot.
Marina, Jean, to the church.
Aristide with me. Quick.
You, Ma'am.
Is there a grocery store?
We're looking for a little boy.
A grocery store!
- You're looking for a grocery store?
- Yes.
- You go right.
- Right.
- First left.
- Left.
It's in the square.
I didn't get it.
Thanks a lot.
You're welcome.
- We looked everywhere for you.
- Yes!
I can tell.
What can you tell?
You and me.
Look.
Mercury.
A perfect alignment of the planets.
And I was thinking...
that that...
is amazing.
We'll have four kids.
We have some time before menopause.
If you want, we'll live at the top
of the Acropolis.
I'll build temples.
You'll have a clinic for addicts.
You might get the Nobel Peace Prize.
Your Greek is very literary.
No, not just literary.
No, I can also say...
iron.
Iron.
I'm ironing.
Wait.
You OK?
I don't know,
my heart's racing suddenly.
- No way.
- Yes, feel it.
- A bit.
- Oh, yeah.
Am I going to die?
No.
Breathe calmly and focus
on a point on the horizon.
I didn't tell you, I drank
from people's glasses last night.
Maybe there was something in them,
drugs, diseases...
A girl blew smoke at me too.
Blew smoke?
When I'm not around,
you'll do anything.
You need to stop leaving me alone.
I feel nauseous.
Damn, my hands are sweaty.
My hands are so sweaty.
Am I having a stroke?
- No.
- I am!
- No.
- Yes, it's a stroke.
If it was, you wouldn't be saying it.
You'd be having one.
Am I speaking normally?
Do you think I speak normally?
I don't think
you're speaking normally now.
You know how to treat a stroke?
- No.
- Yes, you do.
Of course.
- I know what to do if you die.
- Really?
One: bring your body back to France.
Two: You want to be cremated,
because you're a bit claustrophobic
in a coffin.
Three: I invite all our friends,
except Paul,
since he always talks about
the same thing and has bad breath.
Mostly because of his bad breath.
I'm still thinking about that one.
What are you doing with my money?
All your bank info
is in the blue binder.
And where is that binder?
In the bottom drawer of your desk.
Yes.
OK, I got your money.
What should I do with it now?
Oh, I have no idea.
Oh, wait, I know.
You know that little mill
out in the square?
You buy it.
Good idea.
But if you're with a new husband,
I'd rather give
all the money to Paul.
OK.
I'm warning you...
if the girl who smoked on you
shows up at your funeral,
I'll put you in a coffin.
Period.
Wait!
You OK?
Want some water?
No, I'm good.
Kids, the boat's here. Come on!
Go ahead!
We'll join you later.
OK.
I love you!
Marina.
You'll never put me in a coffin.
I know it.
A FILM BY NAFSIKA GUERRY-KARAMAOUNAS
Giuseppe Ilisco
- No.
I don't know.
Jean, will we have a good vacation?
Let's see... I mean, yes.
- Promise?
- Yes. We're playing now.
Come on, guess.
- A bale of hay.
- A bale of hay, really?
I don't know, it's hard!
After all the training we've done,
we've leveled up.
Promise me our vacation will be good.
Yes, I promise.
OK, what about now?
- I know.
- What?
A plate of spaghetti.
- Well done!
- I knew it.
The student has surpassed the master.
Damn, wait, I don't have my phone.
- Marina, I don't have my phone.
- Jean...
- It's Nana.
- Huh?
That's...
Nana Mouskouri.
She was a big part of my childhood.
Look in your bag.
Come on, let's follow her.
Damn.
Wait. Marina!
Shit.
Marina.
So there's nothing we can do?
No.
What, they don't have it?
She's lying.
Are you serious?
The plane's gone.
How can we reach them?
Really? And what if there were a bomb
on board? Huh?
Can't reach them then?
It just crashes?
Can't she call the cockpit?
The cockpit?
I suppose you can't call
the pilot directly?
No.
Except if there's a bomb alert.
Of course not, it's not possible.
She's crazy.
Ask her to lend me a phone,
Please, "Marinaki mou."
Excuse me,
my friend is very upset.
Can he make a call?
My phone is dead.
Please?
Thanks.
Thank you very much.
Marina, give me the numbers
for your family.
You don't need all the numbers.
It's ringing.
Thanks.
I'm not even sure I remember.
Come on, remember.
Damn, voicemail.
We just arrived at Athens airport.
Nice flight. Lunch was a bit off.
They served us a very spongy dessert
with a weird sauce.
I don't fly for the food, after all.
And you're not calling
to give him a report.
Great, thanks.
I think the pockets on my pants
are too big,
so I lost it somewhere,
no idea where.
I'll give you the numbers
you can reach me on if you need.
You have Marina's.
Just one question...
What's it like living in Athens?
I forgot.
6831239759...
+30 is the code.
- You can dial 003069789060...
- Hang up.
When I close my eyes, I see
those cakes your mom makes.
Which ones?
You know,
the big sweet white loukoums.
Shortbread.
Hope I don't get sick.
Even the wind is warm.
Why didn't they park closer?
This is ridiculous.
We're almost downtown by now.
They parked at home.
Anyway, you should've told her.
She's going to kill you.
It's fine.
I see them.
Hey, Marina!
Do I look OK? Not too ugly?
No.
No.
My brother-in-law!
How are you?
Oh, the suitcase!
Who's here, huh?
Look who just got here.
Andreas, Kallisti.
- How are you?
My little Marina!
Thanasis!
Hi, Andreas!
You don't get too burned at night?
Your uncle is trying to ask
if you get too hot at night.
Come on, let's go.
Is that your car?
Yes, we sold the other Toyota.
Too many taxes.
No, my love, get in. Let's go!
So, this is the cover
for the sui... No!
No, it's fine.
Come on, get in!
- I'll keep this with me.
- Yeah.
That's it.
You're quite dressed up
for the airport.
No.
Everything OK, honey?
Voicemail.
- Thanks, Lia.
- You're welcome.
I'm so happy to be here.
You'll ruin your lungs, buddy.
So, how's work going for you two?
Aristide is so proud to have
a doctor in the family.
It's fine. You know, overall,
the French are hypochondriacs.
But I'd like to get more involved.
Doctors Without Borders.
Jean, how's the real estate project?
His first real contract.
It's a building order in Boulogne.
But now, it's...
for the developer's answer.
We're sort of panicking.
Yes, I confirm.
What? What's he talking about?
His work.
Panic.
So, no vacation for you then?
We'll see.
It's a bit tough right now.
Are you still coming to the island
next week
for your cousin's wedding?
Jean, that's not a vacation.
Meanwhile, we'll suffocate in Athens.
When exactly are you leaving?
- Tomorrow morning.
- Really?
- Yeah, from Piraeus.
- That was quick.
You booked the tickets
with our agency, I hope.
Thanasis!
What? We need the business, honey.
Yes, we got the tickets with your...
No, sorry. Actually, we...
I'm sorry.
We didn't get them with your agency,
because we...
I don't really know why.
We were waiting for you.
- So, how's the agency?
- Well...
Tourism hasn't been great
since the season started.
That's great.
No.
No, "hasn't" been great, Jean.
"Not great." Oh, damn.
With all those refugees
on the islands...
No, Jean, that's not the only reason.
Yeah, and without tourism,
they almost fired Lia and me.
But hey, we're going
to Santorini in September
to write about the Akrotiri ruins.
We advertise as best we can
with what we have.
So ruins, in other words.
You look weird.
No, I'm fine.
- Doesn't my sister look weird?
- No more than usual.
No, stop.
I know you.
What's wrong?
What?
- What's happening?
- I'm sorry.
- How awful.
- I know.
What?
The funeral is in an hour, actually.
- When did it happen?
- Last week.
What's wrong?
Last week?
And you tell me an hour before?
This family is insane.
Thanasis?
Their cousin...
How to explain it...
She hanged herself.
- Are you crazy?
- What?
Why didn't anyone tell me?
We didn't want to worry you.
That's all.
- What's up with your cousin?
- She's dead.
Oh my... Dead.
It's absurd that you didn't tell me.
I could've, written a note,
done something, I don't know.
We weren't that close.
OK, fine. You're right.
OK?
But since you didn't call last week,
we didn't want to call you for that.
It would've been too sad.
Isn't it sad now?
You were coming anyway.
It was for your own good.
For my good? And last year,
the baptism?
Oh, right. You forgot
to tell me about that too.
- It's a mess.
- Yeah.
It's always been like this, Jean.
Always.
Did you really know your cousin?
Huh?
This should be fine.
- It has flowers on it.
- Yes, I know.
So, what are you wearing?
No, nothing.
Nope...
I'll jinx the groom.
- You're exaggerating.
- No.
I'll check in my parents' closet.
Irini.
Aren't you at the funeral yet?
Funerals annoy me.
I came to tell you...
that I need money.
Really?
OK, but how much?
- Everything you have.
- Really? Everything I have?
- How much do you need?
- Maybe 100 euros.
I'm asking you,
because I know
you won't ask questions.
Here.
Thanks.
One thing's for sure...
I'll never pay it back.
- I expected as much.
- Oh, Jean.
Thanks.
Irini, what are all these boxes?
- These?
- Yes.
- We're selling, Jean. We're leaving.
- Really?
Yes, owning a home
is too expensive now.
I'm off then.
Got some personal stuff to do.
You smoke now?
Oh, come on. Just one.
You OK?
Fine, just a bit stressed.
I hope I won't cry too much.
I'm stressed too. I have
a pinched nerve in my neck.
- How are you, my sweetheart?
- Fine.
You absolutely have to go visit
Yorgos, honey.
He has a problem with his intestines.
Dad...
Not now.
OK, honey.
Nice to see you.
It's awful.
You could've told me.
- It wasn't the right time.
- How was the trip?
Great. We're happy to be here.
Well, not here.
I mean, the suicide is awful,
Marina's so upset that she's dead.
Stop saying "dead" all the time.
I heard about what's happening.
I'm thinking of your parents.
At their age...
Having to leave their home
almost overnight...
Such a beautiful house...
It's awful.
And to leave it for what?
An apartment? Some dump?
Anyway...
everyone has their fate.
- Yes, Jean, hello.
- So...
- Listen...
- Yeah.
As I expected, the lofts
aren't going to work at all.
Damn, no way. Why?
He said from the start
that he wanted studios.
I knew it wouldn't work.
You were sure, huh.
Sometimes, you have to take risks.
What's up? You there?
I mean, it's not because
we do three crappy studios
that the firm will take off
and we'll get into a magazine.
That doesn't matter.
He doesn't want them, period.
We need to redo the plans
or he'll give the project
to someone else.
So, we'll...
Great.
That's a great attitude.
I mean, now we're really heading...
Wait. Listen to me, OK?
Look at this.
They can't get rid of these!
Postcards from their friends.
Postcards from their friends.
Yeah, but... I'm keeping them still.
Mommy...
What, my love?
Yes, sweetheart.
Put this on so you don't catch cold.
Come here.
You know what's sad, Kallistoula mou?
If you die,
I won't know
until I'm back in Athens.
Are you stupid or what?
Can't even joke anymore...
It's a mess.
What?
I have to redo
all the interior design.
The lofts won't fly.
he didn't sell them.
Didn't the guy say
he didn't want lofts from the start?
No. Well, yes. But it doesn't matter.
Now, I have to start all over.
What do you want me to say?
Nothing.
I know you know
your man will revolutionize
global architecture, so it's fine.
Go inside, honey.
Good girl.
You OK?
That's it! Go see Uncle Jean.
I want to move back here.
- Sorry?
- But...
When I talk to Jean about it,
he shuts down.
Of course, he just got his first job.
Yeah, well, it's not that big
of a job either, so...
He could find one here.
We're in a crisis.
Find here? What don't you get?
There's nothing here.
Come on, it's fine.
I just want to leave.
You? Leave?
Wait, leaving Greece now
would be giving up.
Giving up?
Are you serious?
Come live here with two kids,
then we'll talk.
What's that? Look!
OK.
- One, two, three.
- I swallowed the pit.
Come on!
Mom, we said over there.
I'm sorry.
It's OK.
That's life, honey.
We can't control everything.
I'm fed up with the dust.
Do you know what the house collects?
Of course.
I'll call your mom
from across the apartment,
and she'll finally answer me.
Finally!
Throw it all away like that?
When you're gone, what will we have?
It's not that bad.
If you really want,
we'll go through the boxes again.
Let's enjoy being together.
It's been a tough day.
It's like with my cousin...
If you had told me,
we could have done something,
chipped in, I don't know.
But your cousin, she was proud.
She never complained.
How could we have known?
- It's sad.
- Yes.
- Of course, it is.
- Cheers!
Cheers!
- Cheers.
- Cheers.
Anyway, your country has been going
through lots of crises
in recent years, huh?
World War II, the civil war,
the dictatorship,
now this economic crisis...
It's a disaster. And I'm not
even talking about the dead girl.
Jean, please!
We've had tough times,
my dear Jean, it's true.
We've always pulled through.
It might take years,
but we'll get through.
But it won't be thanks
to our leaders, that's for sure.
They're all corrupt.
No.
All bought.
No, our sellouts aren't
the only ones to blame.
Do we decide?
Others decide.
The Troika decrees
and others agree, Aristide.
As long as Europe has no balls,
our Greece is doomed.
Well said, Grandma.
That's enough.
We wake up with it,
eat with it, sleep with it.
Can we just be together
without damned politics?
What's this?
Perfect.
Looks weird.
Eggplant.
Thank you.
But you haven't eaten anything.
Please, finish it.
No, thanks, I'm good.
He's a vegetarian, the poor guy.
Don't you get it?
Come on, Jean.
For me, just give this a taste.
Don't force him. If he doesn't
want it, he doesn't want it.
Jean's always been
your favorite, Yaya.
Yeah, I like him.
Plus, he's handsome.
Too bad... you're so unshaven.
It's trendy.
Here, a tiny bite.
There's very little meat.
- Very, very little.
- Just a tiny bit. There you go.
- So?
- Oh, yeah. Wow!
With some pita?
Someone's ringing.
Maybe it's for me.
Is it a French number?
Oh right. Just to warn you...
Jean gave your numbers
to his partner.
No, it's my lover.
- Your lover?
- Yes, my lover.
I'll call him back tomorrow.
A little desire
never hurt anyone, right?
True.
He's breathtakingly beautiful.
You can't imagine
how he satisfies me in bed...
all day long.
Show some modesty!
Well done!
It's great to be together.
It doesn't happen every day.
Cheers!
We miss you a lot.
I miss you too.
You know what? Come with us
to the island tomorrow.
Why not?
Sure, we'll go
to the wedding together.
Shall we go?
The house is big enough too.
- Yeah, well...
- Great, let's go.
To a great summer!
Is this legal?
Doesn't matter.
Honey?
I don't think it's Jean's thing.
Oh, yes, he'll love it.
Of course, he'll love it.
Where's the little fish?
Take it.
Thanasis, leave him alone.
It's great.
I'm not going spearfishing
with Thanasis.
No kiss?
Wait, your phone.
Answer it.
Hi, Marina. How are you?
Great.
- We were going to bed.
- OK, then...
Hi, Jean. I'll be quick.
No worries, we have time.
I was just thinking about the plans.
You're on vacation, I'm in Paris.
It's best if I handle it.
Right? It's a good idea.
We're thinking of you
for the delivery. It's soon.
Thanks, Marina.
Cool. Good night, then.
Talk soon.
Yeah, talk to you soon.
He's going to mess up.
- No.
- Yes, definitely.
What if we had a baby?
Not tonight. Something's off,
my stomach really hurts.
You know, like last time in Brittany.
Yes, like in Brittany,
Normandy, Italy.
And almost every first Friday
of the month.
Good night.
Oh, Marina! You...
you scared me.
Mom, you're just in time.
I had nightmares, I can't sleep.
How much is your monthly pension?
Well, Dad's.
I'm reviewing your accounts, and...
To see if you can keep the house.
I think I can find something.
If you give up health insurance...
Because at your age, cancer or not,
we don't do chemo.
I'm a doctor, I know.
So, paying a fortune
for three Tylenol
is pointless.
One, two, three, four.
Honey, I think there's a dead body
on the deck.
You should never have come
to the funeral.
You know, I've thought about it.
I think my parents
should do Airbnb with the house.
You know Airbnb?
Yeah, a bit.
It would cover some taxes
and maintenance.
But you'll need to help Mom,
or she won't manage.
Honestly, I think...
I could stay here to help them a bit.
This ice cream is just...
It's Greece.
Sorry, I think I'm expected.
I sent you a message.
OK, thanks. Maybe we could...
I see you brought the nanny too.
Gives you a bit more time
for you and your wife.
No, it's the sister... Anyway,
let's go.
You're forgetting your...
My binder and my coffee.
Summer is always a bit tough for me.
Look at this house!
Amazing!
It's going to be tight, though.
Here's the living room.
It's quite spacious.
The sofa is... convertible.
Perfect. Jean, we'll sleep here,
so you can rest.
No way, Mom.
We'll take the office,
and you take the bedroom.
Jean won't work.
What about your sister and the kids?
No, no, it's fine.
- Don't worry, Jean.
- Yeah?
We'll sleep in the living room.
I think we've covered everything.
No, we forgot the terrace and pool.
Oh, right, the pool, I forgot.
Is the pool water
being delivered tomorrow?
Cut it with the English.
The pool, I said.
- Oh yes, the pool.
- Yes.
We couldn't do it
for this summer. Sorry.
It didn't rain this winter,
so there's a water shortage.
Well... then you should've told me!
Jean, it's not a big deal.
The sea is right there.
Yes, it is.
A pool without water
is ridiculous. Look.
If I'd known, I'd have rented
something closer to the sea.
We're so far from the beach.
She's crazy, that woman.
I'll sue her.
That's what she'll get.
An empty pool, Thanasis,
ever seen that?
For the rent you charge,
it's ridiculous!
Just fill the damn pool.
In my dream...
I went to a clinic
and the doctor examined me.
He said that everything
dealing with sexuality...
was in the ear.
Aren't you going to say something?
What should I tell them?
They're kids. They're playing.
What's wrong, my love?
Where's daddy? Where is he?
Is he inflating the pool? Yes...
He took a big syringe
and poked my ear.
And then...
I felt... wonderful.
I got into my car...
and I just drove.
I drove like never before.
And I saw a hitchhiker.
I stopped, he got in...
and it was Jean.
- Jean?
- Jean.
Jean.
But he didn't seem to recognize me.
So, at one point,
I don't know why, I told him...
What's it called?
Yup...
More apartments sold
to foreigners this year
for seasonal rentals. It's a shame.
And Greeks don't know where to live.
Yes.
Can you believe it?
Yes!
- So?
- I asked him,
"Are you hard?"
And what did he say?
He answered,
"No, it's you who's hard."
"It's you who's hard."
- And then?
- I woke up.
OK.
I don't know.
It's complicated.
"No... it's you who's hard"...
I mean, it's both clear and...
It can't just be about an erection.
No, it's about desire,
not just an erection.
Tell me, Marina,
have you forgotten your Greek?
Come on, Dad!
It's been 20 years!
My little French girl.
Mom.
OK.
Want some water?
You need to drink water.
What's she doing?
- You OK?
- Yes.
Tell your mom
not to cook all the time.
- We can go to the tavern.
- No, it's fine.
I told her to cook light, no meat.
OK.
Shall we take
a little boat ride together?
No... I have too much work.
- Later?
- Aren't you supposed to be off work?
You're not mad at me?
- Marinaki.
- What?
Yaya's not doing so well.
What?
She left everything I made for her
untouched in the refrigerator.
She's not eating.
Nothing.
You know, she was a mom before you.
Yeah, but still.
What's going to happen?
Have some cake.
These cakes are amazing.
It's rich.
It's not rich. It's sweet.
Listen...
"Platia Amerikis,
Guess how much?
150,000 euros.
Jean, you could even make
a big studio for your models.
How much are you selling our house fo.
Our house? 250,000.
What?
You're giving it away!
You can't sell it at that price.
Have you thought
about the Airbnb thing?
Thanasis, Airbnb.
OK, we're leaving after breakfast.
- Did you take the car?
- Yes.
Thanasis, did you take the parasol?
Yes! I did everything!
Well done.
Did you put on
your swimsuit, sweetie?
When is she going to talk, that kid?
It's fine, Dad.
It's fine.
He's right.
Two years and not a word.
Leave the child alone.
We'll have to take care of it.
- Are you serious?
- Aristide!
She'll talk when she's ready.
I walked without crawling. So what?
To each their own pace.
She's right.
- You were an exception.
- What changed?
Leave me alone!
Jean,
these kids are too spoiled.
Don't you think?
In Greece, generally?
No?
Aristide,
the real estate agent.
Put it on speaker.
Hello, Mr. Kostas. Any news?
Hello. We have a new offer.
It's less than the asking price,
but it'll work with mutual efforts.
OK. Who's the buyer?
A Greek businessman from London
who often visits Athens
and is looking for a place.
Listen, I thought we said
a family as the main residents.
I know, but...
No...
My answer is no.
No.
Excuse me.
The answer is no.
Find another buyer. Sorry.
Have a nice day. See you.
Goodbye.
OK, goodbye.
When you want a child,
you'll have to stop that.
- You're a doctor, you should know.
- Again...
He's right.
Look.
She smokes like a chimney.
You're 35.
So what?
What about menopause?
What are you talking about?
Come on!
What's with you this morning?
Kids.
Thanasis, come on! Kids...
It's fine.
I got it, stop.
Marina, not now.
Not in your nephews' room.
I'd like to work since it's quiet.
Hey, everyone.
What an atmosphere.
How are you, Irini?
It was so hot in Athens.
Hello, sir.
This is Andreas the Great.
My lover.
Hi, Jean!
Jean.
OK, so the apartment
on the third floor...
Yeah?
- The one in the middle, I mean.
- Yeah. What?
Why's the kitchen next to a bathroom?
What's the logic? It should be
on the opposite side.
These are studios, Jean.
We use the water drainage.
We don't really have a choice.
Well, yes, we always have a choice.
It's really ugly like this.
We need to give these studios
some volume.
I mean...
OK, I'll let you redo
the ones on the 3rd.
Anything to say about the 4th floor?
This is ridiculous.
Hello? Jean?
Jean, can you hear me?
Are you there?
What? Sorry.
Should I approve the 4th?
- Thanasis.
- Jean?
Come here! She's all...
What brilliance, what flame.
In my heart.
As if you cast a spell on me.
Sweet Fragosyriote.
As if you cast a spell on me.
Sweet Fragosyriote.
Come on, yaya.
- I'll come to meet you.
- Come on!
Down on the beach.
I'd like to get from you.
Lots of caresses and kisses.
One, two, three. Stop.
Should I put it down?
Careful.
One, two, three.
Wow, you're a magician!
Shit!
Fuck, not the 4th-floor studios.
Shit.
Shit.
It's ruined.
It'll dry.
Wait. Where is everyone?
Out.
I'll never make it.
Of course you will, Jean.
Take care of you both a bit.
The rest will follow.
Come on...
As they say in Greek:
"Keep your head up."
Yeah, maybe.
Oh, damn.
Dammit!
Who was the genius that did this?
This family is really starting
to piss me off!
Oh my God,
how could I have done that?
I was sure they'd dry much faster.
You know we don't mess
with Jean's stuff.
Good night.
He doesn't care at all...
What time is it?
Thanks for waiting for me.
Jean!
Marina.
Your papers, really...
Doesn't matter anymore.
What does matter
is that, tomorrow, you and I...
are going out to sea.
I rented a boat.
You rented a boat?
Yes, I did.
But the wedding is tomorrow.
I know.
But we'll leave early.
We'll be back in time.
Right?
- Right?
- OK.
Yes?
Perfect.
Cheers!
We can poach with the darts!
Poach? What are you going after,
honey? Eggs?
No, "fish."
"Fishing."
Go spearfishing.
Not poaching.
Come on, Jean, get in.
It's nice once you're in.
I got stung by something.
And then, you go all around...
Like this.
Pour a bit out.
Look.
Then, you eat it.
Here, try.
Ouch, yes, it's prickly.
So, now I...
Oh yeah, it's soft.
We're supposed to eat
the orange part?
It's good, right?
No, it's good!
It is.
Taste it again.
Reminds me of when I was little.
I spent hours underwater
fishing for them.
Shall we go?
OK.
Can't do it?
Did you check the engine?
No.
I didn't rent the boat.
Let me try.
We're out of gas.
What?
Oh no.
Where's my phone?
- What?
- My phone.
There's no signal here.
- Look.
- It's OK. We'll row.
What? Row? But where to?
To the shore.
Row to the shore?
Wait, Marina, calm down.
I can't think right now.
"Row to the shore" means nothing.
Everything's mixed up,
the shore, the sea urchins,
I don't feel OK at all.
No.
I can't take it anymore.
You take over now.
No, Marina.
Marina, I'm rowing. OK?
Stop.
What?
Why are you so cranky?
Come on.
It's an adventure, it's funny.
No, it's not funny.
- Give me the oars.
- No.
Yes.
You're making me look
like the killjoy.
It's my turn.
It's my turn.
- Why are you crying?
- I'm not crying.
What's wrong?
You know very well.
If I knew, I wouldn't ask.
You complain every two seconds.
You don't like this country,
you find everything dirty or ugly.
Some people would kill
to be in your place.
Not now, I don't think so.
And you always criticize my family,
my sister, my dad, my mom.
or architecture.
Ridiculous.
- That's ridiculous.
- Really?
I love them, your grandma is my idol.
So what's the problem then?
What is it?
I'll tell you since you
don't have the guts.
- You don't want me anymore.
- Stop it.
We make love twice a year.
The world doesn't revolve
around your worries
and whims, Marina.
Always the same thing...
"Let's move to Greece."
"Dinner with my parents."
I miss my family.
"Let's go to my cousin's funeral,
whom I didn't know,
"and we make love right now,
on the floor."
You're being unfair.
All you do is ask me
if I mind eating meatballs,
- Thanks a lot.
- You're such an idiot.
No, I'm not an idiot,
I'm at my wits' end.
Right... It's so hard to vacation
in a luxury house with a pool
and a maid cooking for you all day.
Poor thing.
Fuck!
You don't get it at all!
What's wrong? Are you insane?
Yeah, I'm insane.
I'm completely insane.
Have you ever once asked
how I was doing?
I don't know, how's my job going.
Have you ever worried about me
even just once, Marina?
Can't you see how bad I feel?
I've been feeling awful... for months
and you can't even see it.
I'm so angry with you, because...
I feel alone. Get it?
OK.
Then there's no reason
to stay together.
Dammit!
It's been an hour. An hour.
You can't count on anything
in this country.
What am I supposed to do?
"We can't pay our debts."
No wonder we can't.
A bus would need to be on time first.
Hey, buddy.
How are you?
I'm great, thanks. What do you want?
Nothing. Just calling.
Jean, you never just call me. No.
Yes, I do.
No, you don't.
Listen, Jean.
Listen, I can't take it anymore,
it's too much.
I mean... I'm dreaming of you, OK?
You know what I mean?
- What?
- That you call...
"How are the models coming along?"
- I can't take it anymore.
- Wait, no...
No, listen. What you're doing...
You're stressing me out.
- No, wait.
- You call me seven times a day!
That's absurd.
I have a life too.
Hi, Maria.
Hi, Margarita.
Maria?
Hey!
Hey!
Mom.
Things are really bad.
How do you know
when it's over with someone?
Mom, are you OK?
No, not at all!
You're four hours late.
See the state I'm in?
I'm not your maid
or your therapist!
Got it?
Mom, are you losing it?
Of course I am!
Lia...
Sorry.
What's wrong?
I'm not doing OK at all.
- What happened?
- It's nothing.
Come on, Marina.
Come on, sweetheart.
Look around you. Stop for a bit.
Stop seeing everything so dark
for just a minute.
You need to enjoy life
a little, you know.
It won't last long.
OK? I'm going back.
Oh my God!
Come on, smile a bit. I'm going back.
Just like her mom, that Lia.
I disagree.
Life needs some lightness, Jean.
You know what they say in Greece?
No.
Chickens and women with the hand.
Meaning?
The chicken...
Lia is deep in conversation
with that guy.
Look how she's smiling at him.
Jean, should I be worried?
Welcome to the club.
I didn't understand the saying.
You eat chicken
with your hands, right?
- Yes.
- And women...
Thanasis, please,
get me a glass of water.
- Sorry?
- I'm thirsty.
Wait, Aristide.
Let's be clear,
since you seem to have mixed
everything up in the last ten years.
I'm not your waiter,
but your son-in-law,
your daughter's husband.
I deserve some respect.
Don't you think?
If my demands are too much
for the Kara family, let me know.
But right now, I'm fed up!
Enough!
Anyway...
maybe it's normal for couples
to go through crises.
It's not normal at all.
No, it's not normal.
I can say it,
because Maro and I
have been married... for 40 years.
Forty years.
We've maybe argued four times total.
My love, bring me some water,
please. Maro?
What do you want?
I'm busy with my meatballs!
What's up with her?
She's had enough of you.
Women.
With hands.
Everything's inside,
so now, I tie it. Watch.
- So? Did they sell it, in the end?
- No, I don't think so.
If you knew how much I think
about it. I feel sorry for them.
How is it possible?
At least they're alive.
Damn!
- What a cheapskate.
- He's always been like that.
The crisis is a convenient excuse...
Best wishes.
Thank you very much.
You shouldn't have, Marina.
It's so important you came.
I'm so happy to be here.
Your husband?
Life together...
It's so awful.
I'll tell you in French instead.
All the endless compromises...
spending weekends together
when we agree on nothing,
being accountable,
justifying yourself.
"Why did you do it like that
and not like this?"
How pretty!
Thanks.
"Did you tidy the cupboards?"
And then, all the teaching...
date nights, eating the same thing
every night...
filing joint taxes...
eating veggies together...
scheduling sex, it's...
Sorry!
I'm being just like a "yaya,"
sharing my whole life story.
I wish you all the happiness
in the world.
Thanks.
Best wishes.
Shit, you scared me.
Are you OK, Maro?
What's up?
I don't know what's going to happen.
With what?
Greece, us.
No, it'll be fine.
Maro, get up. It'll be fine.
Everything's OK.
Jean, I keep having nightmares.
The Chinese, the Germans
are buying everything up.
Cars, porcelain, rugs, everything.
And what we should do?
We should leave our country.
- No.
- Our country, Greece.
You're not leaving your country.
You defeated the Ottoman Empire,
after all!
And you pushed back the Turks
with extreme ease, so...
The IMF won't intimidate
the cradle of civilization,
definitely not.
Last night, you know
what my husband did?
He invited them for coffee
at our place.
Who?
Who?
The Germans.
Enough about the Germans.
Anyway, I can't stand Aristide
anymore. He snores.
A visit to a good ENand it's sorted.
He can't do anything.
He can't even peel mia patata.
Teach him to peel mia patata.
That way, he'll know how.
I'm leaving him.
No, don't leave Aristide.
Yes, I am.
No, don't leave Aristide.
I swear!
No, don't leave Aristide.
I can't take it anymore.
- No.
- I can't take it anymore.
Then leave him.
What do you want me to say?
- You think?
- Yes. Well, no...
It's complicated.
And the meatballs...
An entire lifetime making meatballs!
I can't take it anymore.
I can't stand meatballs either.
I deserve better than this.
I've always thought that.
I'm not a slave.
And certainly not Aristide's.
- Exactly.
- There you go.
He never told me
I was a wonderful woman
- in all these years of marriage.
- Really?
- Yes.
- Well, then... I'm telling you.
You are a wonderful woman, Maro.
It's true.
Thanks, Jean.
Get closer for a photo. Come on.
Get closer. The couple first.
Look at me.
Look at me! Thanks.
One, two, three... Cheese!
Hello, Mr. Kostas?
Look at me.
Look this way. Ready?
- Marina, can we...
- Forget about it.
What?
That's not true,
what you said earlier.
I still desire you... a lot.
So what?
Want a smoke with me?
When life is hairy with women,
you need a smoke.
Thank you.
Time for the speech.
We'd like to thank you all
for coming to our wedding.
Your presence honors us.
Have a great evening.
Thank you very much.
Thanks!
Cheers!
What do you miss most here?
The most?
Honestly, I don't know.
Oh, yes.
The guy at the tobacco shop
who gives you change and says,
"You're pretty and smell nice."
That always made my day,
such kindness.
Sure, you like flirting.
Or the Acropolis.
Wherever you are in Athens,
there it is, magical.
Pistachios.
Outdoor cinema.
The color of the ocean in winter.
Actually, it's not Greece I miss,
it's probably... an idea of Greece.
The Greece of your childhood.
Now it's the old folks
eating pistachios at the movies.
Nothing's left of that Greece, right?
Your memories...
Would you pass me the salad, please?
Please?
Can't you stop asking me for things?
Why me?
I always have to be
the pillar of the house,
the provider, the fair one...
Dammit!
You think I like it?
I'd like to be something else too.
A bird. A rebellious bird.
- Everything OK?
- All good, sweetie.
- A rape?
- No, Margarita.
Nothing like that.
Beautiful women's voices.
Singing.
Goddesses.
The kind of women
you see once in a lifetime.
They're on a rock.
They dive in and swim to our caique.
Yorgos goes, "We have to give them
something. It's good luck."
They arrive at the caique,
each more perfect than the other.
I hand them the bag.
They take it...
and swim away singing!
That's when we realized
we saw mermaids.
I think they caught a big dead bream
and threw it back to the sea.
End of story.
The end.
My beauty.
Jean?
The girls dumped me. I want a smoke.
Andreas,
life is garbage.
Play alone and hold back your tears.
OK?
I knew you'd come back one day.
And you'd tire of your antics.
Don't slip away.
My man.
Stay.
In my arms.
Don't slip away.
My man.
Stay.
In my arms.
She dances well, right?
She got it from me.
It was an unfair breakup.
And endlessly cruel.
Don't slip away.
My man.
Stay.
In my arms.
Don't slip away.
My man.
Stay.
In my arms.
I'll tell the notary to set
a meeting to sell it.
OK, fine.
My dear Marina, I love you so much.
My dear Marina?
Yes.
We sold the house.
That's great.
It's a fresh start for you.
Sir! We've lost Andreas.
Andreas is missing.
Andreas is no longer with us.
No. Come on, let's go!
Thanasis, Lia, to the parking lot.
Marina, Jean, to the church.
Aristide with me. Quick.
You, Ma'am.
Is there a grocery store?
We're looking for a little boy.
A grocery store!
- You're looking for a grocery store?
- Yes.
- You go right.
- Right.
- First left.
- Left.
It's in the square.
I didn't get it.
Thanks a lot.
You're welcome.
- We looked everywhere for you.
- Yes!
I can tell.
What can you tell?
You and me.
Look.
Mercury.
A perfect alignment of the planets.
And I was thinking...
that that...
is amazing.
We'll have four kids.
We have some time before menopause.
If you want, we'll live at the top
of the Acropolis.
I'll build temples.
You'll have a clinic for addicts.
You might get the Nobel Peace Prize.
Your Greek is very literary.
No, not just literary.
No, I can also say...
iron.
Iron.
I'm ironing.
Wait.
You OK?
I don't know,
my heart's racing suddenly.
- No way.
- Yes, feel it.
- A bit.
- Oh, yeah.
Am I going to die?
No.
Breathe calmly and focus
on a point on the horizon.
I didn't tell you, I drank
from people's glasses last night.
Maybe there was something in them,
drugs, diseases...
A girl blew smoke at me too.
Blew smoke?
When I'm not around,
you'll do anything.
You need to stop leaving me alone.
I feel nauseous.
Damn, my hands are sweaty.
My hands are so sweaty.
Am I having a stroke?
- No.
- I am!
- No.
- Yes, it's a stroke.
If it was, you wouldn't be saying it.
You'd be having one.
Am I speaking normally?
Do you think I speak normally?
I don't think
you're speaking normally now.
You know how to treat a stroke?
- No.
- Yes, you do.
Of course.
- I know what to do if you die.
- Really?
One: bring your body back to France.
Two: You want to be cremated,
because you're a bit claustrophobic
in a coffin.
Three: I invite all our friends,
except Paul,
since he always talks about
the same thing and has bad breath.
Mostly because of his bad breath.
I'm still thinking about that one.
What are you doing with my money?
All your bank info
is in the blue binder.
And where is that binder?
In the bottom drawer of your desk.
Yes.
OK, I got your money.
What should I do with it now?
Oh, I have no idea.
Oh, wait, I know.
You know that little mill
out in the square?
You buy it.
Good idea.
But if you're with a new husband,
I'd rather give
all the money to Paul.
OK.
I'm warning you...
if the girl who smoked on you
shows up at your funeral,
I'll put you in a coffin.
Period.
Wait!
You OK?
Want some water?
No, I'm good.
Kids, the boat's here. Come on!
Go ahead!
We'll join you later.
OK.
I love you!
Marina.
You'll never put me in a coffin.
I know it.
A FILM BY NAFSIKA GUERRY-KARAMAOUNAS
Giuseppe Ilisco