Happening (L'événement)
Happening/L'événement, based on the book of the same name by Annie Ernaux, unveils a trauma that Ernaux herself never overcame; one that many women past and present continue to deal with - the shame and isolation of an unplanned pregnancy.
In 1963 abortion was still illegal in France, and the idea of a woman having premarital sex a thing of utmost shame. Anne (Anamaria Vartolomei) is a promising student studying literature with the hopes of one day becoming a teacher herself. This dream brings pride and prestige to her family of local bar owners (a reminder that, at this time, the idea of manual labour being lesser than that of academics). Just before her final exams Anne finds out that the single night she spent with a fellow student has led to an unwilling pregnancy. With no support from those around her and no legal options to consider Anne must take this lonely experience into her own hands.
Director Audrey Diwan superbly brings the pages of Eraux’s autobiography to the screen. With cinematography by Laurent Tangy this film draws the audience into the heart and mind of the protagonist. The tight frames and camera work follow the agony of Anne’s story, the portrayal of which is beautifully raw and honest. Nudity and graphic detail are presented with delicacy and show clear necessity to the evolving storyline. This film will instil fear in many without a villain ever having a single face. The consistent pace and developing score of the film allows the audience to reflect the natural build and release of anxiety of the story.
Anamaria Vartolomei is the star of this film in more ways than one. Her work here shows true talent, playing Anne as both strong and demure; characteristics that were imperative to the audience's understanding and connection to the girl Anne was. Being the centre of almost every frame and portraying such believable and heartbreaking pain is no small feat. Together the author, director and star have done a great service by making this story available to the many.
While some may watch this film and see the key issues as those of the past, it is really a reminder of the lack of freedom and support that many women still face today. This is not a film of reminiscence, but a look into a continuing reality. It is a reminder that the repression of healthy sexuality and desires leads to a society of fear and judgement. Also that one constant of life is you can only ever truly rely on yourself.
