Making Athena

Synopsis

Making Athena (Athena : Le making of) is a compelling 2022 documentary directed by Romain Gavras that provides an in-depth look behind the scenes of the critically acclaimed film Athena. The documentary dives into the intense creative process and the production challenges faced by the cast and crew during the making of Athena, a provocative narrative exploring themes of family, power, and social unrest. Through candid interviews, raw footage, and expert commentary, Making Athena offers an intimate portrait of artistic vision, technical craftsmanship, and the collaborative effort necessary to bring such a powerful story to life. The film is a must-watch for cinephiles interested in the art of filmmaking and the rich socio-political context that shapes it.

Cast

• 

  Romain Gavras

  Self

• 

  Ladj Ly

  Self

• 

  Dali Benssalah

  Self

Reviews

Making Athena has garnered generally positive reviews for its honest and revealing portrayal of the filmmaking process. On Rotten Tomatoes, the documentary holds a favorable rating, with critics praising its immersive approach and the way it captures the raw energy behind Athena. One review on Rotten Tomatoes states, "An insightful peek behind the curtain that enhances the appreciation of the original film." IMDb users have rated the film around 7 out of 10, appreciating the detailed production accounts and dynamic storytelling style of Romain Gavras. However, some critics on Metacritic point out that while the documentary is informative, it occasionally assumes prior knowledge of Athena, which might limit accessibility for some viewers. The New York Times complimented the documentary for "its unflinching look at the tensions and creative sparks on set," whereas some reviewers noted it could have offered deeper exploration into the socio-political issues the original film addresses. Overall, Making Athena succeeds as a passionate tribute to the art of cinema and the challenging process behind a thought-provoking film.