Take a Trip by Christos N. Karakasis is a film that cannot be approached through conventional terms of criticism. Rather, it demands a different mode of engagement, for it is not a “story” that unfolds on the screen but an essay in images and sounds.

Karakasis follows the tradition of essayistic cinema, where narrative is fragmented, the logic of linear storytelling is suspended, and the film becomes a field of reflection. The camera does not simply record events but investigates ideas; the images do not serve as illustrations of a plot but as invitations for inner exploration.

The contribution of Vasiliki Kappa’s texts is crucial. Her writing, both poetic and philosophical, introduces a second layer of meaning. Her words do not “explain” what we see; instead, they shift, reframe, and re-signify it, opening space for new interpretations. It feels like a dialogue between thought and image—one that invites the viewer to become an active participant.

The film’s aesthetic—its black-and-white contrasts, its slow rhythms, its carefully crafted soundscapes—reinforces its essayistic nature. There are moments where silence speaks more powerfully than words, where an empty frame becomes a mirror of our inner landscape. This rhythm may not appeal to everyone; it requires patience, a disposition toward contemplation, and active participation. Yet those who surrender to its flow discover an experience that transcends the boundaries of traditional cinema.

Take a Trip has already proven its strength through an impressive international trajectory: screenings at over 120 festivals in 35 countries, more than 80 awards, and a groundbreaking record of continuous distribution at the Studio cinema in Athens, with uninterrupted screenings lasting over 95 weeks. These are not mere numbers—they testify to a film that resonates deeply with audiences seeking cinema that is substantive and essential, beyond easy consumption.

Christos Karakasis’ contribution is significant for Greek cinema, as he ventures into a genre rarely cultivated in the country: the essay film. With Take a Trip, he demonstrates that cinema can be a space for philosophical inquiry, poetic expression, and existential reflection.

It is not a film for everyone—but for those who follow its path, it will be remembered as an experience. Because Take a Trip does not take us to places; it takes us within ourselves.