Happening
Happening

Movie spotlight

Happening

2021
Movie
99 min
French

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 and pain, even if she must risk prison to do so.

Insights

IMDb6.5/10
Rotten Tomatoes96%
Metacritic87/100
Google Users93%
Director: Audrey DiwanGenres: Drama

Plot Summary

In 1960s France, a young student named Anne desperately seeks an abortion after becoming pregnant. Facing social stigma and legal prohibition, she navigates a perilous path to terminate her pregnancy, confronting loneliness and risking severe legal consequences.

Critical Reception

Audrey Diwan's 'Happening' was widely praised by critics for its intense and unflinching portrayal of a woman's struggle for reproductive freedom. The film was lauded for its powerful lead performance and its historical context, resonating with contemporary discussions on women's rights.

What Reviewers Say

  • A harrowing and vital film that captures the desperation and courage of its protagonist.

  • Praised for its raw emotional power and important social commentary.

  • Annamaria Vartolomei delivers a standout performance as Anne.

Google audience: Audiences appreciated the film's intense and realistic depiction of a difficult subject matter, highlighting the lead actress's performance and the film's historical significance. Some viewers found the subject matter challenging but ultimately impactful.

Awards & Accolades

Golden Lion at the 78th Venice International Film Festival.

Fun Fact

Director Audrey Diwan stated that she wanted to make the film to show that abortion is not a political issue, but a lived experience.

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TMDB Reviews

1 reviews
CinemaSerf

CinemaSerf

"Anne" (Anamaria Vartolomei) is a young student studying to be a teacher, when she starts to feel stomach cramps. A visit to the doctor reveals that she is pregnant and the remainder of this drama relates to her decision not to have the bab...