The script written by Leonidas G. Demas and George Demas resurrects this tradition and follows the edicts precisely with marvelous results. The intent is made even more brazen by the fantastic ’80s throwback poster, featuring a helmet with Walkman headphones and pictures of the leads lined up in squares below the retro font title.
What makes this formula more modern this time is the suggestion that the uptightness may be Asperger’s, an interesting slant that adds more nuance. It creates a deeper emotional stake for the viewer that makes the impact of what happens halfway through damn near devastating, which then makes the roller coaster ride of the third act all the more incredible. This adherence to tradition while adding incremental innovations puts A Spartan Dream on the same level as the best fish out of water classics like Local Hero and Montenegro.
Like many of the films in this sub-genre, A Spartan Dream is essentially a travelogue for the foreign locale where it is set. Thanks to the magnificent cinematography by Giannis Fotou, the audience is treated to one panoramic landscape after another of sheer gorgeousness. Coming into this, I never pictured myself visiting Greece.
A touching moment between Brad and Gorgo in A Spartan Dream, set in the scenic Greek countryside.
“Overwhelming rich in reverence to ancient tradition in more ways than one.”
Now, after seeing Achilles’ movie, I can’t imagine missing it. My eyes have been opened to some amazing possibilities for future vacations, which are now enriched by the discovery of how into cowboy culture the Greeks are. Achilles makes sure you get to see the best of the country while the actors get to work impressing us.
Bundic completely nails the chronic awkwardness of someone lost in the world at that age. He gives an ultra-realistic portrayal that is both inhibited yet wildly committed, welling up emotions of pity and awe simultaneously. Mesariti does a superior job of being a fully dimensional love interest, as she also represents the love of all that is Sparta as well. She can be sweet as pie and tough as nails, which works so well on the screen.
The kooky characters are excellent, with Koronaios providing what can only be described as serious comic relief. Achilles pulls off the neat trick of giving us a deep yet breezy viewing experience, which we need more of in this hectic world. A Spartan Dream shows why the old ways still work the best in making something brand new to enjoy. Well worth your time.
"…on the same level of the best fish out of water classics"
