The Weeping Meadow

Greek writer-director Theo Angelopoulos has a small but devoted following, who may well find this first installment of a proposed trilogy on the Greek experience in the 20th century to be a masterpiece of sorts. In truth, The Weeping Meadow does contain a number of sequences showcasing the director's special skill of constructing a striking mise en scène while also choreographing the slow, methodical movement of figures and crowds, leading to a succession of gorgeous compositions worthy of exhibition on museum walls. But the visual virtuosity can't conceal the film's emotional hollowness. Loosely based on the ancient Greek myth of Phaedra, the plot revolves around a son who runs off with his father's young bride. Together at first, and then separately after the young man emigrates to America, the couple are swept up in the major events of modern Greek history—the rise of socialism, the fascist takeover during WWII, and the subsequent civil war (in which their twin sons inevitably fight—and die—on opposing sides). But the characters remain symbols rather than flesh-and-blood individuals, and the tone throughout seems gray and doom-ridden. While The Weeping Meadow boasts great artistry, it's ultimately like sitting through one very long dirge. Optional. [Note: DVD extras include an interview with director Theo Angelopoulos. Bottom line: a small extras package for an uneven film.] (F. Swietek)