In 13 minutes, Aristotelis Chaitidis and Alkistis Kafetzi have crafted a visually arresting and thought-provoking film described by the filmmakers as "a cinematic allegory, a visual approach of two principles: the human and the divine. The common ground on which they meet is the sacred. But the encounter does not come without a price." 

What is holy? Goddess, Garbage, & Gewalt explores detachment of the divine from the human experience and complete absurdity of it all. Beautifully shot by Kafetzi, this is a film where our two characters, played by Aleksandra Corovic and Chaitidis himself, are practically submerged within the polluted world created by humanity despite a divinity that promises so incredibly much more. 

Symbolism abounds in this powerful film, though this symbolism represents universal truths about how the plastic pollution represents a universal attitude of narcissistic short-sightedness of person and politics and even the weakness and inability, perhaps even lack of desire, of religious dogmas to secure the planet's future despite an ability to do so if one would choose. 

The characters in Goddess, Garbage, & Gewalt are largely secondary to the visual tapestry presented and the film's message. However, it must be noted that both Corovic and Chaitidis beautifully bring this message to life in their poetic performances. 

Goddess, Garbage, & Gewalt has been on its indie fest run since 2022 and continues to this point. An ideal selection for indie, social justice, and experimental fests, Goddess, Garbage, & Gewalt is a film to check out if you get the chance. 

Written by Richard Propes
The Independent Critic