Drama,History,Thriller
Algeria,France
Z is a 1969 political thriller from Greece, directed by Costa-Gavras. The film is based on the novel of the same name by Vassilis Vassilikos, which was inspired by the real-life assassination of Greek left-wing activist Gregoris Lambrakis in 1963.
The film follows the investigation into the death of the character "Z," a charismatic leftist politician whose rallies have been gaining steam in Greece. Z is played by Yves Montand. The ruling party, which is aligned with the military junta in Greece, wants to keep Z's message of leftist solidarity from spreading.
Early in the film, we see Z's rally being attacked by right-wing thugs with the tacit approval of the authorities. Later, Z is killed in what initially appears to be a hit-and-run accident. However, witnesses and evidence suggest that it was a premeditated assassination ordered by the authorities.
As the investigation proceeds, we see how the country's corrupt justice system, media outlets, and police force all work to obstruct the truth and protect those in power. Even the lawyers defending Z's case find themselves targeted by the state.
The film's title refers to the graffiti left by protesters in Athens after the assassination: "Z" stands for the Greek word "Ζει," which means "He lives," suggesting that Z's message and legacy will continue despite his death.
Z was a groundbreaking film for its time, both for its political commentary and its storytelling techniques. The film features a non-linear narrative that jumps back and forth in time, and Costa-Gavras employs a frenetic editing style that heightens the sense of urgency and chaos of the investigation. The film won the Palme d'Or at the 1970 Cannes Film Festival and was also nominated for five Academy Awards, including Best Picture.
