Ep 117: Audrey Diwan discusses her film Happening + Orla O'Connor talks about reproductive rights

A pregnant student seeks an abortion in 1960s France in the compelling new drama Happening. Audrey Diwan's stunning film is an immersive insight into life at the time, as young women explore their sexuality but are repressed by a law that bans abortion and, as our heroine puts it "turns them into housewives.” Director Audrey Diwan joins host Anna Smith to discuss the film starring Anamaria Vartolomei. She explains why she was keen to adapt the text by Annie Ernaux, based on a true story, and how the orgasm scene was inspired by one of her own experiences. She discusses the modern day relevance of the topic and also how her gaze is informed by many aspects including her gender. Next, Anna is joined by Orla O'Connor, who was listed as one of TIME's 100 Most Influential People for her work on the Together For Yes campaign. Orla is a passionate feminist and incredible speaker who heads up the National Women's Council in Ireland, and gives a wonderful insight into the ongoing fight for reproductive rights. She also gives her personal response to Happening, and explains the importance of film in raising awareness about access to legal abortion. Happening is in UK and Irish cinemas from April 22nd 2022. Go to www.happeningfilm.com. This episode is in partnership with Picturehouse Entertainment, supported by the BFI Audience Award. Become a patron of Girls on Film on Patreon here: www.patreon.com/girlsonfilmpodcast Follow us on socials: www.instagram.com/girlsonfilm_podcast/ www.facebook.com/girlsonfilmpodcast www.twitter.com/GirlsOnFilm_Pod www.twitter.com/annasmithjourno Watch Girls On Film on the BFI’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLX…L89QKZsN5Tgr3vn7z Girls On Film is an HLA production. Host: Anna Smith. Executive Producer: Hedda Archbold. Audio Producer: Emma Butt. Assistant Producer: Shanaiya Pithiya. House band: MX Tyrants.