A young woman finds herself facing a terrifying dilemma in “Happening.” The French film chronicles its main character, Anne, and the consequences surrounding her unplanned pregnancy. Faced with a lack of access to abortion services, the ’60s era student must confront dangerous options as well as a judgemental society intent on punishing her at every turn.
This Venice 2021 winner and Sundance 2022 selection presents an honest — and ultimately frightening — look at what women of the period went through to get appropriate care. The Playlist’s Warren Cantrell cited it as “painting a bleak picture of what a society without legal access to abortion looks like.” It wasn’t the only film to tackle the subject at this year’s festival. “Call Jane” and “The Janes” both explore the powerful underground movement to help women find safe abortions during the ’60s and ’70s.
“Happening” hails from writer-director Audrey Diwan. Along with co-writer Marcia Romano, Diwan crafts an adaptation of Annie Ernaux’s book that will stay with audiences long after it is over. The director is no stranger to tackling social issues with a sense of empathy and honesty. Her 2019 effort, “Losing It,” delves into the effects of addiction on personal connections.
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“Happening” racked up the awards and accolades last year, winning the Golden Lion top prize at the Venice Film Festival. It looks poised to do the same at the 2022 French Cesar Awards, where it’s been nominated in several of the top categories, including Best Film, Best Director, and more. The film’s official synopsis:
Adapted from prize-winning author Annie Ernaux’s semi-autobiographical novel, “Happening” follows Anne (Anamaria Vartolomei), a bright young student with a promising future ahead of her in France during 1963. 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 and pain, even if she must risk prison to do so.
Anamaria Vartolomei, Kacey Mottet Klein, Luàna Bajrami, Louise Orry-Diquéro, and Louise Chevillotte star in “Happening.” The IFC Films release opens in theaters on May 6. Watch the official trailer below.
