A visual exploration of tradition and cultural identity on the Greek island of Chios: two churches on opposing hillsides enact an ancient Easter celebration by firing over 100,000 handmade rockets at each other as worship takes place inside.

The film captures the local moments, atmospheres and landscapes that build up to this spectacular pyrotechnic display, touching on the history and significance of the practice. The sense of anticipation grows, before the energy is released in breathless and seemingly endless waves of fireworks set against the town’s landmarks and the night sky.

Published by Narratively.