Death under control (2021)

"Death Under Control" is a poignant documentary that delves into the neighborhood surrounding the 1st Cemetery of Athens. This area, shaped and nurtured by its proximity to the cemetery, offers a compelling lens through which the viewer encounters the evolving relationship between Athenians and their dead. The grandeur of the epitaphs in the cemetery reflects the social status of the deceased, but these monuments are as much for the living as for the departed. They embody a material memory that satisfies the living's need to express their faith in an afterlife, a belief that, whilst varying in its religious specifics over the years, remains universally powerful.

The documentary captures how this neighborhood became a magnet for poor, unskilled workers who found employment in the myriad roles supporting the funerary process. Over time, these roles gained structure and respect, yet they never fully shed their macabre associations. "Death Under Control" introduces us to the descendants of these early workers, offering a humanizing glimpse into professions that historically have been undermined.

Through intimate stories from morticians, funerary house owners, florists, and sculptors, the film reexamines what it means to make a living from death. These professions, often considered grim, are revealed in a new light, showing the dedication, artistry, and profound respect these workers bring to their daily tasks. Their narratives challenge preconceived notions, demonstrating that their work is not merely about managing death, but about honoring life and maintaining a connection with the departed.

"Death Under Control" transforms what might be seen as a morbid occupation into a testament for the enduring need for memory and remembrance. It shows how a community can grow and thrive around such a fundamental aspect of human existence, reflecting on a deep, universal yearning to keep the memory of loved ones alive. This documentary is a tribute to those who work tirelessly behind the scenes, ensuring that death, with all its solemnity, remains under control.