Who has been to the Greek Islands? It is an experience you don’t want to miss. And, it is never too late as we are reminded watching Two Tickets to Greece. This inspirational movie is just what you need to book your next holiday to the Greek Isles.
I am a lover of Greece and have been visiting its many islands for years. So, when I was asked to review this film by Palace Cinemas and She Society, I jumped at the chance. Even better, I have visited all the locations shown in Two Tickets to Greece.
But most of all, one island that put a reminiscent smile on my face was Amorgos. I sailed there years ago. After dropping anchor we trekked across steep, goat-laden fields to reach the remote Hozoviotissa Monastery built into the island’s rockface.
It is one of those OMG moments when you turn the corner of the stone stairway and look up to be greeted by a whitewashed building with its low marbled doorway. The view of the brilliant blue Aegean Sea is spectacular and worth the walk.
Two Tickets to Greece was the best-attended film in the 34 years of the Alliance Francaise French Film Festival and I see why. It is a delightful crowd-pleaser, a tale of female camaraderie, stoked by laughter tears and need I say more, spectacular scenery thanks to the fabulous cinematographer, Antoine Roch- A.F.C.
Three fabulous femmes, Laure Calamy, Olivia Cote and Kristin Scott Thomas are the stars of the show. They make you laugh, cry and reflect. In some ways, it is bittersweet infused with a more serious and nostalgic side. To my surprise UK actor, Kristin Scott Thomas also speaks fluent French, she has lived in France since she was nineteen.
The film reminded me a little of Thelma and Louise, so mismatched, but then when Kristin Scott Thomas entered the scene, the dynamics changed to create another interesting turn in the story.
Story
This is a wildly entertaining new comedy from writer/director Marc Fitoussi (Folies Bergère, Call My Agent!) about estranged childhood friends who tentatively reunite for a trip to the Greek Islands.
Recently divorced, and watching helplessly as her only son leaves home, Blandine (Côte) is struggling to find her footing again.
So when her former best friend Magalie (a scene-stealing Calamy), loud and fearless, suddenly resurfaces, she allows herself to be spontaneous for a change. The two will take the trip they always dreamed of as teenagers, to the Greek Island of Amorgos, the amazing location where Luc Besson’s The Big Blue was shot.
But as they head off towards their destination, it’s soon apparent that Magalie’s very different approach to holidaying – and to life – could lead Blandine to her breaking point…and beyond! At the end of the day, this is a feel-good movie for a relaxing Boxing Day outing or thereafter.
I’m returning to Amorgos after seeing this movie, who wants to join me?
Cast
Laure Calamy (Magalie) , Olivia Cote (Blandine), Kristin Scott Thomas (Bijou), Alexandre Desrousseaux (Benjamin), Nicolas Bridet (Maxim), Panos Koronis (Dimitris)
Writer & Director: Marc Fitoussi
Producer: Caroline Bonmarchland
Country of Origin: France
Released in cinemas nationally on Boxing Day, 26 December 2023.
Bonus: Chance to win a trip for two to the Greek Islands if you keep your ticket, scan the bar code and fill out your details.
Ruth Greening holds a Bachelor of Arts degree majoring in Psychology & Philosophy. Before retirement, she worked for over 40 years in the corporate world in Melbourne and Brisbane and progressed into senior management positions and project roles for both private industry and government.
In her 70’s, she continues in casual roles as a freelance writer, model, and actor participating in small movies, TV commercials and User Generated Content.
As a grandmother, she is known as Nanny Babe to her grandchildren and writes from a Baby Boomer perspective on her blog www.nannybabe.com. An avid crafter Ruth actively participates in sewing, crocheting and knitting.
While she continues to pursue her artistic passions, Ruth is dedicated to maintaining her health and fitness as she ages by attending the gym, dancing and walking and thrives on mentoring others.
Connect with Ruth or our moniker Nanny Babe; nannybabegengp.blogspot.com.au/
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