Short films can be a brilliant source of authentic content for language students. Their bitesized length means they can be played a few times, and serve as a great opportunity to work on comprehension skills. They are often pretty arty and amusing too. The fact that a story is told in such a short space of time means that the films are often instantly gripping and highly thought-provoking. Recently we’ve been exploring a range of Greek short films, and here are a few that have grabbed our attention.
The Foreigner
When a small village of just 34 residents receives a letter from the local authorities informing them that their public services will be cut off unless they increase the population, the mayor is worried. The sudden appearance of a tourist however, gives him hope and the locals rally together to try and show off the best of the village and convince him to stay.
Incidentally
In this film a conversation between a call centre employee takes an unexpected turn when the lady on the end of the line opens up and gradually reveals some shocking news. Was this her way of sharing the news in an indirect way with her family who are sitting in the background? Find out in this thought provoking piece.
The Interview
A nervous candidate attends an interview with a feisty business woman, and is initially struggling to perform under the pressure. But when the interviewer suggests a roleplay in which they switch positions, things really start to take a twist. This quirky film is a real play on power dynamics.
Without Milk
This film also exposes power struggles, this time as a commentary on compromising and selling out in order to achieve success. How far is too far when it comes to reaching our goals? When should we draw the line and stick to our instincts? This film will definitely make you think!
The Afterlife
A bereaved man is struggling to cope, and has the heartbreaking habit of still laying the table for two and leaving a meal out for his wife. Suddenly, however, he notices the food is getting eaten, and this strange occurrence starts to fill him with some much needed joy.
Hibernation
This morally testing film really makes you think. A university student studying psychology and ethics also holds a part-time job at a call centre for a debt collector. What she studies in class starts to play on her mind as she makes difficult calls to customers owing money to the company, and her morals become increasingly challenged.
Crossing Over
In this dark story, a young man comes face-to-face with Hades and starts to regret his life choices. On his trip to the underworld he wishes he could turn back time and start over. Will he be given another chance? This short film definitely puts things into perspective.
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