Four Moments. Each moment a struggle, each struggle a step towards acceptance.
Four poignant stories shed light on the diverse facets of life for individuals with disabilities and autism, underscoring the importance of acceptance and empathy. Two young newcomers, face the challenge of fitting into a new school environment, where mere courage isn’t enough to feel included. In the city, a lack of accessibility exposes everyday injustices often overlooked. The search for employment becomes a test of dignity and perseverance, while friendship and teamwork reveal how small gestures can lead to significant change. Through his quiet observations, Marios weaves together these stories, realizing that true change begins when we dare to see the world through someone else’s eyes. Every glance carries a struggle, every struggle brings us closer to understanding. The protagonists, individuals living with autism and disabilities, bring authenticity to their roles, reminding us that empathy and compassion are the foundations of an inclusive society.
Director's Statement
When the care center for individuals with disabilities and autism proposed this project, it immediately resonated with me. The aim was not just to highlight their lives, but to invite the audience to see them as they are—complex human beings—without resorting to pity or over-sentimentalization. I wanted to create a film that would challenge common stereotypes, avoid clichés, and reflect the hard truths of how society's behavior affects those who are often marginalized. The film is not about portraying these individuals as "problems," but instead as people navigating a world that frequently misunderstands them.
I hoped that the audience would walk away with a greater sense of thoughtfulness and kindness—an understanding that showing empathy toward people with disabilities and autism doesn’t require monumental effort, but just a shift in perspective. The film’s emotional impact is built from the performances of the real-life actors, rather than being manipulated by me. My goal was not to evoke tears or to push emotional buttons, but to let the stories resonate in a way that prompts reflection on how our behavior shapes the lives of others.
Working with actors who have autism or disabilities presented unique challenges, but those challenges also led to moments of incredible triumph. These actors were able to accomplish something they never thought possible, and that achievement became the emotional core of the film. It was a reminder to me that sometimes, what’s most important is creating an environment where people can rise to the occasion, even if the path there isn’t easy.
In terms of the film’s visual and auditory elements, I aimed for simplicity. I didn’t want the visuals or sound to overshadow the stories themselves. Every choice, from cinematography to sound design, was made to let the emotions flow naturally from the characters and their situations.
Although I don’t have a direct personal experience with disabilities, the film became a personal journey of understanding. The stories presented in this film speak to a broader societal message—that a little kindness can go a long way. Cinema, for me, is a tool for evoking change, and this film is an invitation to reconsider how we treat one another, particularly those who are most often overlooked.
News
Power24 International Film Festival
Project has been selected as an honorable mention in festival!
11 JUNE 2025
Bangkok Movie Awards
A day through my eyes is now Finalist on Bangkok Movie Awards!
8 JUNE 2025
Bangkok Movie Awards
A day through my eyes is an official selection of 17th season of Bangkok Movie Awards!
2 JUNE 2025
«Μια μέρα μέσα από τα μάτια μου»: Η νέα ταινία του Ηλείου σκηνοθέτη Χαράλαμπου Κοντοπανάγου
Στη συνέντευξη που έδωσε στην εφημ. «Πατρίς» και τη Νάντια Μανιάτη μιλά και για τη σπουδαία εμπειρία του στη σκηνοθεσία της ταινίας μικρού μήκους «Μια μέρα μέσα από τα μάτια μου», με παιδιά από το ΚΔΑΠμεΑ «Ηλίανθος» Γαστούνης η οποία μέσα στο μήνα θα ξεκινήσει την πορεία της στα φεστιβάλ. Μία ταινία στην οποία παιδιά με αυτισμό υποδύονται τον εαυτό τους, όμως, όπως εμείς, τον έχουμε στο μυαλό μας.
Official Pages
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FILM FREEWAY
Details
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Director
Charalampos Kontopanagos -
Writers
"Ilianthos" Team of Educators -
Runtime
12:45 min -
Airing Date
to be announced