The King

Synopsis

The King (Ο βασιλιάς), directed by Nikos Grammatikos and released in 2002, is a compelling Greek drama featuring Vangelis Mourikis in the titular role. The film explores the intense psychological and emotional journey of its protagonist, a man grappling with his past and the complexities of power and identity. Set against a stark and haunting backdrop, The King delves into themes of existential struggle and human vulnerability. Mourikis delivers a powerful performance, bringing depth and nuance to his character's internal conflicts. The movie's narrative is rich with symbolism and subtle commentary on societal and personal dynamics, making it a thought-provoking cinematic experience for fans of character-driven stories.

Cast

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  Vangelis Mourikis

  Vangelis Farmakoris

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  Marilita Lambropoulou

  Maria

• 

  Minas Hatzisavvas

  Petros Voliotis

• 

  Babis Giotopoulos

  Mayor

• 

  Vivi Koka

  Vivika

• 

  Tasos Nousias

  Anastasis

Reviews

The King has garnered generally positive reviews from critics and audiences alike. On IMDb, it holds a strong rating of 8.1/10, reflecting a favorable reception among viewers who praise its intense storytelling and Mourikis’ compelling performance. Critics have noted the film’s slow-burning pace and atmospheric tension as key strengths, with particular commendation for its ability to invoke a deep emotional resonance without resorting to overt exposition. For example, reviewers have highlighted the film's capacity to engage through its visual storytelling, stating that "The King crafts a moody and reflective portrait that's both unsettling and captivating." However, some critiques point to its deliberate pacing as a potential barrier for viewers seeking more conventional plot progression. Nonetheless, its art-house style and thematic depth have secured it a respected place within contemporary Greek cinema. While there is no official score on Rotten Tomatoes or Metacritic, audience and critic feedback consistently underscores its status as a poignant, if challenging, work of cinematic art.

See also

Joker

Raiders of the Lost Ark

Soul

Oppenheimer