Interview Question for Yannis Kostavaras, The Luthier. (2025), 76 mins.
1. Philotimo is a Greek concept that I explored in my paper. A concept that dates back to ancient Greece which describes a man that embodies stoicism and strength. In my interpretation of The Luthier the main character Nikos captures this essence of Philotimo. Did you intentionally capture and film Nikos in a way that would highlight these qualities. Do you also notice these virtues in him as well?
2. In my exploration of masculinity in Greece, it seems that one commonality is that the role of men is often associated with overtly being a leader and a role model in the community, someone that takes initiative and is assertive. On the other hand though, Nikos is someone who is not overtly commanding and dominant, rather he is conveyed as conceited. What drew you to focus on someone who is a craftsman rather than someone who resembles the traditional main character “hero” archetype.
3. The Luthier in your documentary does not seek social approval or praise, instead he is focused on crafting quality instruments in solitude”. I mentioned in my essay that the ideal of a man “was expected to keep the respect and admiration of the community, this was known as philotimo, which was crucial if he wanted to lead a virtuous life and gain high self esteem”. Do you think that Nikos is a reflection of traditional masculinity or does he resemble the contemporary and shifting view of masculinity in Greece?
4. Given that Greek society has valued honor, courage, and strength as masculine ideals throughout their long standing history. Which can be observed in their mythologies and post war cinema. Do you think that the perception of masculinity has shifted since post war Greece, 1950’s, and how do you see it represented in modern Greece? Specifically what factors, potentially political, ideological, or cultural, that may have impacted the expectations of masculinity? Do you think Greek cinema today is moving away from the archetype of the stoic male and pivoting towards a more contemporary and accepting perspective and if its the latter why do you think this is happening?