A Tale of Loss, Revenge, and Growing Up

Set against the backdrop of Athens in 1966, Back Door tells the story of Dimitris, a 13-year-old boy whose world is shattered when he unexpectedly loses his father. This tragic event leads to a domino effect as Dimitris witnesses his pampered mother’s emotional collapse. In an act of profound determination, he decides to forgo his childhood and embrace adulthood prematurely to support his mother through these trying times.

The turning point in Dimitris’s life occurs when he resolves to reclaim his mother from the clutches of an emerging star within the military regime. This decision sets in motion a harrowing and brutal coming-of-age journey, where Dimitris is driven by vengeance. In doing so, he inadvertently alters the course of Greek history.

Unpacking the Narrative: Beyond a Boy’s Gaze

Many have attempted to dissect Back Door and label it as a film about how a young boy perceives the world amid the dictatorship. However, the true essence of this cinematic masterpiece transcends such a simplistic interpretation. The film challenges viewers to step into Dimitris’s shoes, but not as child-spectators of the world. Dimitris, remarkably mature for his age, possesses an almost infallible perception, and he associates with an older crowd, further distancing himself from the typical innocence of boys his age.

The loss of his father propels Dimitris into adolescence ahead of schedule. Throughout the film, we are transported to the future, where our protagonist finds himself incarcerated in a dictatorial military prison, typically reserved for ‘communists.’ These transitions are not mere cinematic devices to maintain audience interest; they skillfully underscore the suffering of an entire generation during the Junta era.

The film skillfully contrasts the period of uncertainty that preceded the military coup with the instability reflected in young Kemeras’s life. The uncertainty engendered by the loss of his father, doubts about his uncle’s sexuality, the rejection by his ‘sweetheart,’ and the wavering political affiliations of his stepfather all mirror the tumultuous state of Greek society at the time.

Back Door features an impressive ensemble cast, with seasoned Greek actors complementing the young talent. While some may find the dialogue slightly anachronistic at times, the film’s overall cinematography and editing shine. At its core, the film highlights the inherent connection between politics and personal ideologies, a theme that resonates throughout the narrative.

Watching Back Door online on CineAthens.com

Now that we’ve unveiled the profound layers of Back Door, you might be eager to experience this gripping coming-of-age story for yourself. Thankfully, you can watch Back Door online on CineAthens.com. Simply click on one of the blue buttons on this page, and immerse yourself in a journey through 1960s Athens, where the power of a young boy’s determination shapes the course of Greek history.

Back Door (Piso Porta) is more than just a film; it’s a testament to the resilience of the human spirit amid challenging times. Its exploration of loss, revenge, and growing up resonates with audiences today, making it a must-watch for cinephiles and history enthusiasts alike. So, don’t miss the opportunity to discover this Greek cinematic treasure on CineAthens.com, and let Dimitris’s story inspire and captivate you.