Yia Yia and Papou: A Story of Perseverance (Parts 1-3)

Chapter 1

Yia Yia and Papou: A Story of Perseverance

Twenty twenty was full of chaos and uncertainty. For most of the year, I was at home with my family. I decided to look inward and explore the legacy living right next door: my grandparents.

While making this film, I listened to them retell moments of happiness and hardship from their lenses as a first-generation Macedonian American and Greek immigrant. I thought I was familiar with their story, but what was new was their emotional vulnerability—which they rarely show. 

As a filmmaker, I documented and preserved their legacy. As a young adult, I learned from their wisdom. And as their granddaughter, I honored them for all the sacrifices they have made and continue to make for family.

26:34 minutes

An Update from the Filmmaker: April 17, 2022

In June 2021, Yia Yia and Papou: A Story of Perseverance was recognized as an official selection at the Chicago Indie Film Awards. That same week, we celebrated 70 years since my Papou immigrated from Greece.

This experience with docutribe, Inc. sparked my interest in nonfiction production and allowed me to hone my skills—and for that I am forever grateful. I will continue to build my craft this summer as a 2022 Television Academy Production Intern.

Chapter 2

Yia Yia and Papou

In one of my classes, I had the opportunity to revisit Yia Yia and Papou: A Story of Perseverance. As a reversal and expansion of the original film, Yia Yia and Papou tells my grandparents’ story from the perspective of their children and grandchildren.

Through this film, I further connected with my identity and grew closer to my family. I now realize this was part of my journey. The film coincided with a significant personal decision: to legally change my last name to Siambekos. This experience strengthened my cultural pride and deep respect I have for family.

Chapter 3 (see trailer above)

The Keepers of Manari

The film transports the audience to Manari, a near-abandoned village in the mountains of Arcadia, Greece. Once a large farming community, Manari is now home to only eleven people who are all in their eighties and nineties. Vaso  Aggelopoulou (90) and Vaso Voutiritsas (96),  lifelong friends and residents of Manari, cannot imagine living anywhere else. Vaso A. holds all the keys in the village, including those to the churches, the town hall, and the closed kafeteria (local cafe). Vaso V. is the social glue of the community and always manages to watch over her fellow choriki (villagers). Together, they are the keepers of Manari. Though Manari has been the place they have cherished for decades, today they find themselves at a difficult crossroads. Who will take care of the village after they are gone?