Olympia (2018)

Olympia Poster

Follow Academy Award winner Olympia Dukakis behind the scenes in this affectionate profile of a stalwart New Yorker and beloved stage and screen treasure.

Olympia Film Overview
"Olympia", released in 2018, is an inspiring heartfelt indie drama that was directed by Gregory Dixon. It stars McKenzie Chinn who also wrote the screenplay. Set against the backdrop of Chicago, the movie provides a poignant tale of individual development and identity, laced with themes of love, aspiration, relationship, and the continuous struggle to discover one's place in an ever-changing world.

Plot and Narrative
The movie centers around the life of Olympia Welles, a role that McKenzie brings to life. Olympia is a skilled, yet having a hard time artist nearing 30. She's delaying her dreams of becoming a full-time artist while managing her day task as a receptionist. Olympia's life remains in a phase of turmoil with her boyfriend Felix pondering a move to California for a fellowship, her mother's health decreasing, and her long-term affair with her married employer turning sour.

Character Presentations and Performances
McKenzie's portrayal of Olympia is raw, honest, and relatable, highlighting the vulnerability of an individual going to expose their creative work to the world. The supporting characters, consisting of Olympia's bohemian buddy and an understanding veterinary service technician, include depth to the narrative. Every performance is adding to the emotionally rich drama and unveiling layers of qualities, vulnerabilities, and inspirations.

Secret Themes
"Olympia" explores various styles, mostly browsing through the complexities of change, the challenging journey of personal advancement, and the role of aspiration in specifying one's identity. It highlights the idea that life isn't exclusively about reaching an offered destination however appreciating the journey itself. The film also explores the complexities of relationships and the impact of external scenarios, whether they be romantic, familial, or professional.

Visual Aesthetics and Cinematography
The movie uses a beautiful and gritty representation of Chicago, capturing its architectural elegance and diverse cultural essence. The abundant, warm color palette complements the naturalistic lighting used throughout the film, adding to the distinct visual aesthetic. The cinematography mirrors the protagonist's growth journey, leveraging different camera angles, light, and spacing to draw the audience deeper into Olympia's world and struggles.

Conclusion and Impact
"Olympia" is far more than a movie. It's a raw exploration of an artist's journey and life options, a culmination of the essence of human experience. In spite of the trials Olympia faces, she continues to aim to acknowledge and appreciate the charm in the little details of life, while constantly making every effort and yearning for the bigger picture. The movie communicates a soothing message that it is never too late to alter, and human capacity is not dependent on age or scenario.

Simply put, "Olympia" is an indie drama that deals with the universal themes of individual and creative growth in the background of a changing world. With its authentic storytelling, riveting efficiencies, and poignant themes, it resonates deeply with the audience, stumbling upon as an event of life and its complexities, rather than a simple representation of them.

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