Film Lens

The film centers on the discovery of a Greek tombstone in Turkey, which leads to the story of Chrysoula Rodaki, who died in 1887. This tombstone serves as a connection to the forced population exchange between Greece and Turkey in 1923. Director Kerem Soyyilmaz investigates local archives and engages with older villagers, revealing his family's historical ties to this event.
As Soyyilmaz searches for Rodaki's descendants, he encounters significant support from Greeks across the border. The narrative intertwines personal history with broader historical themes, as the return of the previous owners of the village house offers a moment of redemption for the trauma associated with the past.
Why Watch
- •Meet director Kerem Soyyilmaz and his quest for history.
- •Find out about the 1923 population exchange.
- •See the impact of a tombstone on personal stories.
Did You Know
•Chrysoula Rodaki died in 1887, as indicated on the tombstone.
•The forced population exchange between Greece and Turkey occurred in 1923.
•The film has a runtime of 57 minutes.
•The tombstone was found under the floorboards of a house in Turkey.
Perfect For
Greek-Turkish historyGenealogy enthusiastsCultural heritage