I recently had a role as a Conceptual Photography Consultant in the noteworthy film project, Fonissa. Directed by Eva Nathena and produced by Tanweer Greece and View-Master Films, this experience provided valuable insights into the filmmaking process. Fonissa promises to be an exciting cinematic venture, blending artistic vision with storytelling prowess. Fonissa comes out in cinemas from November 30, 2023.
About the Work Fonissa (Murderess).
Fonissa (Murderess), by Alexandros Papadiamantis, is a gripping novel set in late 1800s Greece, particularly on the isolated island of Skiathos. The story follows Hadoula, a middle-aged woman, as she grapples with societal expectations and commits heinous acts, driven by her belief in a woman's life being filled with suffering. The narrative explores the complexities of the protagonist's psyche and sheds light on the role of women in a small community. Adapted into various forms, including theatre and film, Fonissa continues to captivate audiences with its exploration of societal dynamics and the consequences of societal expectations on women.
About Papadiamantis, the Writer of Fonissa.
Alexandros Papadiamantis, born on the island of Skiathos, Greece, in 1851, left an indelible mark on Greek literature. Raised by a priest father, he faced economic challenges during his studies in Athens, compelling him to leave without completing his education. Returning to Skiathos, he devoted his life to writing, gaining popularity for his journalistic endeavours and serialized novels. Papadiamantis's unique approach garnered substantial fees, which he often reduced, displaying his indifference to wealth. His selflessness extended to sharing earnings with those in need. A reclusive figure, he focused on depicting the struggles of the poor and spiritual reflections, earning him the moniker "kosmokalogeros" (monk in the world). Papadiamantis passed away of pneumonia on his native island in 1911, leaving a literary legacy that transcends his humble lifestyle.
Location a: Schinias, Marathon, Attica.
I've had the privilege of capturing scenes in two distinctive settings for the film. The first took place at Schinias, near Marathon in Attica, and the second unfolded in the charming village of Mountanistika in Mani, nestled within Laconia, Peloponnese.
During the Schinias shoot, I photographed family portraits, serving as prop imagery within the movie. These images adorn the walls of the house interiors, each portraying the families relevant to the respective scenes.
Throughout both locations, I enjoyed the flexibility to navigate the film sets, allowing me to craft compositions inspired by elements that caught my eye. This creative freedom added a personal touch to the visual storytelling.
Encountering Karyofillia Karabetis.
Karyofillia Karabetis stands as one of Greece's esteemed actresses, notably portraying the lead role in the film Fonissa. Our first encounter unfolded during the prop shooting day at Schinias. As I patiently waited for the crew to prepare, I noticed her navigating the set. Ready for filming, she seemed to be familiarizing herself with the location beforehand.
Seizing the moment, I had the chance to capture a series of portraits within a barn situated on the set. This impromptu photo session provided a glimpse into the actress's poised and professional demeanour, showcasing her dedication to her craft. Karyofillia Karabetis's presence added a distinctive touch to the film's production, and our brief interaction offered a unique behind-the-scenes perspective.
The Family Portraits.
Upon the actors' readiness, our focus shifted to crafting compelling family portraits for the characters in Fonissa. Surpassing the planned shots, we seized the opportunity to capture an unplanned yet poignant moment: Hadoula (The Fonissa) and her family posed against the backdrop of a majestic prickly pear tree.
Director Eva Nathena wanted to use this scene in the film, and as soon as the filming was over, she requested an additional photograph, prompting me to contribute my perspective.
Transitioning to an indoor setting, we meticulously arranged for the family to recreate the envisioned photographic tableau. This collaborative effort aimed to enrich the film's narrative with authentic and visually captivating family portraits, showcasing the depth and complexity of Fonissa's characters.
The Bride and the Wedding.
In the following sequence, we captured moments from the bridal session, aiming to convey the essence of the matrimonial journey. My lens focused on several key scenes: a solo portrait of the bride, gracefully situated within the intimate setting of her home alongside her cherished dowry; a shot featuring the newlyweds on the occasion of their wedding day; and some group photos capturing the sisterly bond shared among the bride and her sisters.
The picturesque backdrop for these moments unfolded near two adjacent churches, seamlessly enhancing the visual narrative. These locations, provided an ideal setting for the traditional bridal photographs, adding a touch of timeless elegance to the matrimonial story.
Other Portraits.
Concluding our artistic journey, we crafted additional portraits in the surroundings nearby. One notable composition features Yannis Tsortekis, the shepherd, and his family against the backdrop of a mountain. Another evocative portrayal captures a mother with her two children, reflecting poignant narratives and emotions.
