ATHENS – The film 11 μ.μ. by Diamantis Karanastasis showcases the streets of Athens by night and refers to the empty cities all over the world during the pandemic lockdowns, with impressive background music by MOBY.

Karanastasis uses the classic 1962 film Athens at Night, directed by Klearhos Konitsiotis, to contrast with Athens at Night 2021 and creates a poetic 15-minute film, starring the city, its hangouts and our absence. The resulting film highlights the endless silence of the cultural spaces at a time when the city was usually buzzing with life.

The visual and audio material from Konitsiotis’ Athens at Night (1962) is used with the permission from Papandreou SA.

Filmed on Friday, March 19 and Sunday, March 21, 2021, shortly after the curfew on the city streets, 11 MM is a record of what we experienced during the pandemic.

The film is available on Vimeo:

11 μ.μ. from diamantis karanastasis on Vimeo.

Karanastasis was born in Larissa, Greece, to parents who are both mathematicians. In 1992, he began his studies at Athens Polytechnic University, but left to pursue his theatrical endeavors. As an actor, Karanastasis has been performing in Greek theatre, cinema, and TV since 1998.

His directorial debut was the feature film AIMA (English title: My Blood) which won eight international awards and received several nominations. Karanastasis served as writer, producer, editor, and performed one of the leading roles in the film.

He has directed and created several artistic videos, promotional videos, and personal film projects, and starred in many popular Greek television series. Karanastasis has also worked as a voice actor in many TV, radio, and internet spots, as well as in Greek voiceover for blockbuster animation films.

A scene from the film 11 MM by Diamantis Karanastasis contrasting Athens 2021 with the 1962 film Athens at Night, directed by Klearhos Konitsiotis. Photo: Courtesy of Diamantis Karanastasis

11 μ.μ – Direction / Cinematography / Editing / Sound Design: Diamantis Karanastasis

Music: MOBY.