Plot Summary
Discover the intricate plot of Attenberg (2012). From unexpected twists to emotional highs and lows, this detailed summary breaks down every moment to give you a deeper understanding of the film’s story.
Marina, a 23-year-old woman lacking sexual experience, resides with her terminally ill father, Spyros, in an industrial coastal town in Greece. She works as a gofer and driver at the local steel mill, finding solace in the wildlife documentaries narrated by Sir David Attenborough, the music of Suicide, and the sex education provided by her friend Bella.
Despite her struggles with social interactions, the bonds she shares with her father and Bella reveal a depth of warmth and understanding. As Spyros reflects on life and the inevitability of death, he muses, > “Man has designed ruins with mathematical accuracy…” underscoring the fate that awaits most architecture over time. He casts a cynical gaze on their nation, noting, “We (Greece) went from sheep to bulldozers…”
When a mysterious engineer arrives in town and begins working at the steel mill, Marina embarks on her first sexual relationship, though she chooses to keep it a secret. She confides in Spyros and later in Bella, provoking Spyros to question, “If you do not want me to meet him, why are you telling me about him?”
As Spyros faces his impending death, Marina makes a heartfelt request for Bella to spend the night with her father, wanting to grant him a final comfort. Bella, showing her compassion, agrees to this request. Meanwhile, Marina’s relationship with the engineer deepens.
The film culminates with Spyros’s passing, leading to a poignant farewell. His body is sent to Germany for cremation. In the final scenes, Marina and Bella take Spyros’s speedboat out to sea to scatter his ashes, a symbolic gesture that marks their farewell before they return to the steel mill and part ways, each carrying forward the memories of their beloved father.
Timeline
Track the key events of Attenberg (2012) with a comprehensive timeline. Perfect for understanding the sequence of major plot points, this feature offers clarity on how the story unfolds.
Marina's Life in Greece
Marina is a 23-year-old woman living in an industrial coastal town in Greece. She struggles with sexual inexperience while working as a gofer and driver at a local steel mill, finding solace in wildlife documentaries and music.
Relationship with Spyros
Marina lives with her terminally ill father, Spyros, with whom she shares a deep bond. Their conversations reflect on life, death, and the changing landscape of their country, infusing Marina's mundane life with depth and warmth.
Influence of Bella
Marina's friend Bella provides her with sex education, which becomes crucial as Marina navigates her own feelings and relationships. This friendship offers a sense of support and guidance amid Marina's struggles with social interactions.
Spyros's Reflections
Spyros reflects on his life and the inevitability of death, sharing his cynical thoughts about Greece's decline from pastoral simplicity to industrialism. His musings serve as a poignant backdrop to Marina's journey of self-discovery.
Arrival of the Engineer
A mysterious engineer arrives in town to work at the steel mill, sparking a change in Marina's life. This marks the beginning of her first romantic and sexual relationship, a significant step for the inexperienced young woman.
Marina's Secret Relationship
Marina embarks on a secret relationship with the engineer, navigating her feelings of desire and vulnerability. She confides in Spyros and Bella about this new connection, which raises questions about her intentions and emotional readiness.
Spyros's Questions
As she confesses her relationship, Spyros questions Marina's reluctance for him to meet the engineer. He poses a thought-provoking query, indicating his concern for her well-being and the complexities of their evolving relationship.
Marina's Request to Bella
Faced with her father's impending death, Marina asks Bella to spend the night with Spyros. This heartfelt request is meant to provide Spyros with comfort in his final days, showcasing the deep bonds of friendship and love among the trio.
Bella's Compassion
Bella agrees to Marina's request, demonstrating her compassion and understanding for both Marina and Spyros. This act symbolizes the strength of their friendship and the lengths they go to support each other during difficult times.
Spyros's Passing
The film reaches its emotional climax with Spyros's passing, marking a profound loss for both Marina and Bella. His death not only signifies the end of an era for Marina but also serves as a turning point for her character's growth.
Cremation in Germany
Following his death, Spyros's body is sent to Germany for cremation. This act signifies the finality of his life and adds layers to Marina's grief as she prepares for her farewell to her beloved father.
Scattering of Ashes
In a poignant farewell, Marina and Bella take Spyros's speedboat out to sea to scatter his ashes. This symbolic gesture represents closure, marking a bittersweet end to their shared memories and the love they had for Spyros.
Return to the Steel Mill
After scattering the ashes, Marina and Bella return to the steel mill, reflecting on their journey and the impact Spyros had on their lives. Each woman carries forward the rich memories and lessons imparted by Spyros, ushering in a new chapter.
Parting Ways
The film concludes with Marina and Bella parting ways, each navigating their own path while holding onto the memories of Spyros. This emotional separation signifies personal growth and the enduring bonds formed through shared experiences.
Characters
Meet the characters that bring Attenberg (2012) to life. Dive into detailed profiles of the cast and their roles, exploring their motivations, relationships, and arcs within the story.
Marina
Marina is a 23-year-old woman struggling with social interactions and sexual experience. Throughout the film, she showcases resilience as she faces her father's illness and delves into her first intimate relationship. Her connection to her father and Bella reveals her emotional depth and desire for understanding.
Spyros
Spyros is Marina's terminally ill father, who grapples with the reality of death and the legacy he will leave behind. His reflective nature and poignant insights add a layer of complexity to the narrative, providing a philosophical perspective on life’s fragility. Spyros's relationship with Marina is marked by warmth and vulnerability.
Bella
Bella serves as Marina's friend and confidante, providing support and guidance during difficult times. Her willingness to comfort Spyros in his last moments showcases her compassion and understanding. Bella acts as a bridge between Marina and the complexities of adult relationships.
Setting
Uncover the settings of Attenberg (2012), from iconic locations to the time period that shapes its world. See how these elements add depth and context to the movie’s narrative.
Time period
The film does not specify a particular historical time period, focusing instead on contemporary themes of life, death, and personal relationships. The narrative unfolds in a modern setting, highlighting the personal experiences of the characters against the backdrop of current societal views in Greece.
Location
Industrial Coastal Town, Greece
The movie takes place in an industrial coastal town in Greece, characterized by its steel mill and proximity to the sea. This setting serves as a backdrop for Marina's struggles and her relationship with her father. The contrast between the industrial landscape and the natural beauty of wildlife documentaries reflects Marina's internal conflicts.
Themes
Explore the core themes of Attenberg (2012). From its commentary on social issues to its emotional undertones, delve into the deeper messages woven into the film’s story.
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Loss
The theme of loss is prevalent throughout the film, particularly as Spyros faces terminal illness and the implications of his death on Marina. Their relationship embodies the pain of impending separation, as Marina navigates her grief and the need to comfort her father. The scattering of ashes symbolizes the finality of loss and the emotional bonds that remain.
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Coming of Age
Marina's journey represents a coming-of-age tale as she explores her sexuality and personal identity while grappling with complex relationships. Her first sexual experience with the engineer signifies a pivotal moment in her life, reflecting her growth amidst challenging circumstances. The support from Bella illustrates the importance of friendship in this transitional phase.
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