Athos
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78% Critic Match

Athos

7.8 / 10 2016 1h 39mNR German
Documentary

Storyline

The Athos peninsula in Greece is one of Europe's last secrets. Over 2000 monks live on Athos - cut off from the outside world. Access is denied to women, tourists are not welcome. Only workers and pilgrims can obtain a visa. The "Autonomous Monastic State of the Holy Mountain" attracts people who feel like they are missing something from their modern lives. With the help of three Athos monks, "Athos - A Taste of Heaven" tells the story of the island and its inhabitants in a unique filmed diary style. The film's guiding theme is the path we as people have to find and follow - each and everyone for themselves. "First we must heal our own souls, only then we can help others", is one of Father Galaktions core messages. He lives as a hermit on the holy mountain. Not all monks, however, live as secluded and demure as Father Galaktion. The film team is also received by Father Epiphanios - a gifted and poetic cook who certainly does not disdain the pleasures of life.

Cast & Crew

FA

Father Akakios

Lead
FA

Father Alypios

FA

Father Avakum

FE

Father Epiphanios

FP

Father Philoumenos

FG

Father Galaktion

FG

Father Grigorios

FJ

Father Josef

What People Are Saying

4.0
A staggering achievement of craft and ambition. Peter Bardehle's vision lands with breathtaking precision.
Manohla Dargis, The New York Times
4.0
Every frame feels alive. Athos is the rare release that takes its audience seriously.
Anthony Lane, The New Yorker