Greek Cinemas Add Intermission to The Odyssey
· news
The Break That Keeps On Giving: Greece’s Cinematic Interludes
In Greece, where cinema has long been an integral part of daily life, the tradition of mid-film breaks is more than just a quirky cultural quirk – it’s a lifeline for struggling movie theaters. As the lights dim and the projector whirs to life, audiences settle in for what promises to be a thrilling ride, only to be interrupted by the inevitable: an interlude.
For some, this brief respite from the on-screen action is a welcome chance to stretch their legs or grab a snack. Others view it with disdain, grumbling about the disruption to the narrative flow and the potential loss of precious screen time. But for cinema owners who rely on these breaks to stay afloat, they’re a crucial revenue stream.
Greece’s intermissions have become an integral part of the cinematic experience – a chance for audiences to socialize, discuss the film, and connect with their fellow movie-goers. This unique aspect of Greek cinema culture has been lost elsewhere as multiplexes and digital projection have taken over. Intermissions are still common in countries such as Switzerland, Egypt, and Turkey, but Greece is one of the few places where they’re an essential part of the movie-going experience.
Cinemas like Cine Foivos, which has been family-run for 72 years, rely heavily on intermissions to generate revenue. According to Dafni Bechtsi, owner of Athens’ Alexandra theater, “In Greece, we don’t just go to the movies – we socialize. The revenue from food and drink during the break is critical to our survival.” This isn’t just about selling snacks and drinks; it’s also about creating an atmosphere where people can connect with each other.
The intermission in Greek cinema has its roots in the country’s rich cultural heritage. In the early days of film, movie theaters were often hubs for live entertainment, with orchestras and theatrical troupes performing between screenings. Even today, Greece’s outdoor cinemas offer a unique experience that’s as much about people-watching as it is about watching the movie.
Not everyone is pleased with the break – some directors have complained about the disruption to their carefully crafted narratives. However, for most audiences in Greece, the intermission is an integral part of the fun. It’s a chance to stretch their legs, grab a snack, and engage with fellow movie-goers in a way that’s unique to this country.
As Vrasidas Karalis, author of A History of Greek Cinema, notes: “The conversations that unfold during the interlude are often just as fascinating as the film itself.” Peggy Ringa, an archaeologist turned cinema-owner, echoes this sentiment. She counts herself among those enthusiasts who cherish these breaks.
So the next time you’re at the movies in Greece – or anywhere else where intermissions still exist – take a moment to appreciate this unique aspect of cinematic culture. It’s not just about the film itself; it’s also about the experience, the atmosphere, and the connections we make with others.
Reader Views
- ADAnalyst D. Park · policy analyst
The benefits of intermissions in Greek cinema extend beyond revenue generation. They also serve as a cultural unifier, bridging socioeconomic divides within audiences. While it's easy to dismiss these breaks as antiquated or inconvenient, they provide an authentic experience that many multiplexes struggle to replicate with forced social media tie-ins and overpriced concessions. Theaters like Cine Foivos have mastered the art of creating a communal atmosphere during intermissions, one that's more about people than product. This is what makes Greek cinema culture so resilient in the face of digital disruption.
- CMColumnist M. Reid · opinion columnist
The intermission in Greek cinema: a cultural touchstone worth preserving. While the article highlights the financial boon these breaks bring to struggling theaters, what's often overlooked is their impact on audience engagement. Research has shown that viewers who participate in pre-show socializing and discussion before the break are more likely to stay for the entire film, not just the second half. This phenomenon is particularly significant in a country where cinema-going is an integral part of community life.
- CSCorrespondent S. Tan · field correspondent
The intermission conundrum in Greece's cinemas is more than just a nostalgic quirk – it's a testament to the nation's deep affection for communal experience. But what about the impact on foreign films? With many Hollywood blockbusters relying heavily on fast-paced editing and minimal downtime, do these breaks actually benefit the artistic integrity of international productions or merely add a layer of cultural insensitivity? It's an issue that deserves more attention, especially as Greece continues to forge its unique cinematic identity in an increasingly globalized film landscape.