“This misinformation that has been rampant in some Greek Media is shockingly wrong and, really, we have serious doubts that any of the makers of these claims have seen the film,” says the director.
The screening of the Swedish director Christian Zetterberg’s film, “Shower Boys”, to 10-year-old students in a primary school in Attica, caused reactions and much was written and said about this choice. There was even an out-of-court lawyer asking the school management and the Primary School Directorate, as well as the Ministry of Education, to establish whether the film was approved for showing in the context of the school.
The film, which is just nine minutes long, was initially billed as having an erotic content, but in reality it has won numerous awards, is considered suitable for ages 11 to 18 and reflects society’s demand that even young boys prove their masculinity.
What does the director answer?
The director of the film, Christian Zetterberg himself, made a statement to freecinema.gr about the topic that caused discussion in our country.
Among other things, it states: “There have been allegations that this short film is of an erotic nature and depicts sexual incidents between children. These claims are without any logic and, as directors, we cannot understand how the film and its theme could be interpreted in this way. This movie shows absolutely nothing of the sort.
The director’s written statement (Source: freecinema.gr)In detail, Mr. Zetterberg reports: “It came to our attention that our film, ‘Boys in the Shower’, was published in the Greek media. The reason concerns the alleged complaint of a parent against a teacher who showed the film to a group of children.
There have been claims that this short film is of an erotic nature and depicts sexual incidents between children. These claims are without any logic and, as directors, we cannot understand how the film and its theme could be interpreted in this way. This movie shows absolutely nothing of the sort.
She the misinformation that has grown in some Greek Media is shockingly wrong and, really, we have serious doubts that any of the makers of these claims have seen the film.
‘Boys in the Shower’ tells a story of male friendship, how two very good friends explore the norms of masculinity, what it means to ‘be a man’ and, ultimately, how their friendship is both challenged and supported by the adults around them. It is a world-renowned film, with multiple awards to its credit, including the Best European Short Film for Children, from the prestigious ECFA (European Children’s Film Association), which in fact bears the patronage of several European film institutes, among them the Helliniko Cinema Center.
‘Boys in the Shower’ used daily on educational platforms across Europe and seen by thousands of children, from its first screening in 2021. We wholeheartedly support the teacher’s decision to use the film in the classroom. Films should be discussed and debated, but it is undeniably problematic when claims are made on a completely false basis. We hope that the Greek public will show critical thinking, filtering the information that is being shaken at the moment, and that people will find time to watch the film if they get the chance.”
Christian Zetteberg, director
25/05/2023″.
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