The Film: Happening
Venice Film Festival Golden Lion winner, Happening has been hailed as one of the year’s most important films, with rave reviews from critics across the board (99% on Rotten Tomatoes).
France, 1963. Anne is a bright young student with a promising future ahead of her. But when she falls pregnant, she sees the opportunity to finish her studies and escape the constraints of her social background disappearing. With her final exams fast approaching and her belly growing, Anne resolves to act, even if she has to confront shame, pain, and even prison.
Adapted from Annie Ernaux’s autobiographical novel, Happening recounts the physical and emotional battle to access illegal abortion. A powerful and gripping drama set in a society that condemned female desire and sexual liberty.
“French abortion drama Happening is poignant, pressing, essential cinema!”
– Globe and Mail
“A stylish time capsule reaching into the present with unnerving clarity. Abortion care is still so hard — this film makes that fact sink into your bones.”
– Ella Kemp, Empire Magazine
“One of the best films of the year… vital, sobering… It’s hard to think of a film more necessary in the current moment.”
– David Jenkins, Little White Lies
