Roger (2024)

🎬 Overview & Plot

"Roger" (2024) is a Greek short drama film written, directed, edited, and produced by Thanos Mitsios. The story revolves around Kostis, a young man constantly criticized by his father for being "too weak." In a desperate attempt to gain his father's approval and transform into the son he believes his father wants, Kostis begins reshaping his identity. As his transformation deepens, the film explores whether this journey brings him closer to his authentic self—or pushes him dangerously far from it.

🎥 Director & Creative Team

• Director/Writer/Producer/Editor: Thanos Mitsios

• Cinematography: Evangelos Polychronopoulos

• Original Score: Mikes Billis

• Editing Support: Lambis Haralampidis

• Production Design: Danai Elefsinioti

• Costume Design: Mandy Papadaki

• Hair & Makeup: Stella Karapouliou and Stella Soulele

• Produced by: Filmiki Productions and Trilogy4

Thanos Mitsios’s deep involvement in multiple creative roles lends the film a strong, cohesive artistic voice.

🎭 Themes & Artistic Style

"Roger" is a coming-of-age film that touches on themes of masculinity, parental expectations, identity crisis, and emotional repression. It uses intimate camera work and minimal dialogue to mirror Kostis’s internal emotional world. The pacing is deliberate, allowing viewers to sit with the tension and quiet vulnerability of the main character.

The cinematography employs natural lighting and close framing, creating a sense of realism and psychological proximity. The film's muted color palette complements the somber, introspective tone, while the music subtly supports emotional beats without overwhelming the scenes.

🎬 Festival Screenings & Reception

"Roger" had its premiere in September 2024 at the Drama International Short Film Festival in Greece, followed by a screening in October 2024 at the Athens International Film Festival. Though reviews are limited, the film has received praise in festival circles for its authenticity, powerful performances, and nuanced exploration of emotional repression and societal roles.

⭐ Critical Analysis

The film succeeds in its minimalist approach. By resisting the urge to over-explain, it allows the audience to interpret Kostis’s pain and motivations. Thanos Mitsios shows great restraint and confidence as a filmmaker, trusting the visual language and the actor’s performance to convey depth.

What sets "Roger" apart is its ability to evoke empathy and introspection in such a short runtime (19 minutes). It doesn't provide easy answers or dramatic conclusions—instead, it lingers in the gray areas of identity, family, and emotional survival.

📌 Final Thoughts

"Roger" is a haunting and emotionally resonant short film that speaks to the universal human desire for acceptance, especially from those closest to us. With precise direction, elegant visuals, and a powerful central performance, it stands out as a strong example of contemporary Greek short cinema.

If you're drawn to character-driven narratives that explore internal struggles and emotional transformation, "Roger" is a poignant and thought-provoking watch.