Greek film wins Venice award and returns to Thessaloniki
Jacqueline Lentzou's feature 'A Day in the Life of Jo' premieres at the Thessaloniki Film Festival this week after winning best director at Venice.
Film returns to Greece for awards
The movie competes in the main international competition at the Thessaloniki Film Festival. It follows a whirlwind tour of fall festivals including New York and London. The film explores the life of fifteen-year-old Jo played by Evia Andriopoulou. Her ordinary day changes when classmate Phaedra arrives and sings an old ballad.
Director cites real events for spark
Lentzou states the story was inspired by the 2008 killing of Alexandros Grigoropoulos. That incident sparked nationwide protests in Athens and marked a coming of age for her generation. The narrative progresses through mundane events leading to an explosive conclusion. A visit from Jo's father adds another layer to her fragmented daily life.
Casting search found perfect young star
The director discovered Andriopoulou after an exhausting two-month casting session that ended disappointingly. She felt a deep connection with the shy newcomer during their first meeting. Lentzou expects her to win more prizes following her recent Euro Balkan Film Festival award. Cinematographer Grimm Vandekerckhove created striking visuals for this formally bold conclusion.
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