

Girls On Film
Anna Smith
Girls On Film is a film review podcast from a female perspective, hosted by film critic and broadcaster Anna Smith and produced by co-founder Hedda Archbold at HLA Agency
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jul 28, 2022 • 28min
Ep 122: Joyride: Behind the scenes on Olivia Colman's new movie with Emer Reynolds and Ailbhe Keogan
Anna Smith talks to two of the women behind the new road movie Joyride, starring Olivia Colman: Emmy-nominated director Emer Reynolds (THE FARTHEST) and screenwriter Ailbhe Keogan.
The film focuses on reckless solicitor Joy (Colman) who has arranged to give up her baby before her taxi is hijacked by tearaway Mully (Charlie Reid), a boy running away from his manipulative father. Together, they are a pair of outsiders on the run.
Emer and Ailbhe talk about the response to the film, its real-life inspirations, Olivia Colman, and depicting the realities of womanhood.
Audiences can see JOYRIDE in UK cinemas from 29 July 2022.
Girls On Film is an HLA production. Host: Anna Smith. Executive Producer: Hedda Archbold. Audio Producer: Ben Cook. Intern: Grace Delve. House band: MX Tyrants.
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
This episode was produced in partnership with Vertigo Releasing.

Jul 23, 2022 • 41min
Ep 121: She Will special with Alice Krige, Charlotte Colbert, Kitty Percy and Jessica Malik
In this SHE WILL Special, Anna Smith talks to four key women behind the extraordinary female-focused folk horror: actor Alice Krige whose other work includes the Borg Queen in STAR TREK and Alma/Eva in GHOST STORY; director and co-writer Charlotte Colbert whose other work includes THE SILENT MAN, screenwriter Kitty Percy, and BIFA- nominated producer Jessica Malik whose other productions include LEADING LADY PARTS and ESTRANGED.
The film explores the story of Veronica Ghent (Alice Krige) who after a double mastectomy goes to a healing retreat in rural Scotland with her young nurse Desi (Kota Eberhardt). Veronica discovers that the process of the surgery opens up questions about her very existence, and begins to confront past trauma.
The retreat is said to have special powers because it was a site where witches were burned and there are large amounts of women's ashes in the earth. Veronica discovers her power and what agencies can heal her past and present wounds.
Alice Krige talks about the complex role she plays, the themes of the film including surviving abuse and breast cancer – and rising from the ashes like a phoenix. Charlotte Colbert, Kitty Percy and Jessica Malik talk about the challenges of filming in a remote location in Scotland and the joyous collaboration of the female team who made the film, which made it better and better.
She Will is out in cinemas in the UK this weekend from 22 July 2022.
Girls On Film is an HLA production. Host: Anna Smith. Executive Producer: Hedda Archbold. Audio Producers: Little Bird Creative. Intern: Grace Delve. House band: MX Tyrants.
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
This episode was produced in partnership with Vertigo Releasing

Jun 17, 2022 • 47min
Ep 120: Emma Thompson talks Good Luck to You, Leo Grande at Sundance London Film Festival
In this very special #SundanceLondon episode recorded live from Picturehouse Central, Girls On Film open the festival with an episode all about GOOD LUCK TO YOU, LEO GRANDE!
Anna interviews the marvellous stars Emma Thompson and (a very rare MALE guest) Daryl McCormack, as well as writer Katy Brand, and director Sophie Hyde.
First up are Emma and Katy who discuss how the project developed and the influence of DIRTY DANCING on the film.
Sophie and Daryl then join Anna on stage, detailing the rehearsal process and the research they both did into sex work. Our guests then go on to discuss realistic female representation on screen and how we still have a long way to come.
The episode closes with a fabulous Q&A where audience members ask our amazing guests their burning LEO GRANDE questions.
Film and TV mentions across the episode include: GOOD LUCK TO YOU, LEO GRANDE; BELLE DE JOUR; DIRTY DANCING; LETHAL WEAPON 3; SEX EDUCATION; ADDAMS FAMILY VALUES; SECRETARY; EIGHTH GRADE; YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN; ANIMALS.

May 11, 2022 • 34min
Ep 119: Leah Purcell & Kerry Fox on feminist western The Drover’s Wife - The Legend of Molly Johnson
The Drover’s Wife: The Legend of Molly Johnson is the first Australian feature film with an Indigenous woman writing, directing and performing the lead role. In this episode, Anna Smith interviews the amazing Leah Purcell, who shares how she turned her favourite childhood story into a book, a play and now a film. Leah talks about the differences between the experiences, about working with her partner and about what the film has to say about women and the Indigenous people of Australia.
Next, Anna chats to actor-director Kerry Fox, who has starred in many films, including Jane Campion’s An Angel At My Table, Little Joe and The Colour Room. Kerry gives her perspective on The Drover’s Wife, considering the influence of Jane Campion’s work. Meanwhile Anna recommends other feminist westerns to watch, as well as a couple of other new releases. The pair also look ahead to this year’s Cannes Film Festival, and Kerry shares her stories of attending Madonna’s party with Danny Boyle when attending the festival with the film Shallow Grave.
The Drover’s Wife: The Legend of Molly Johnson is out in UK and Irish cinemas on May 13th 2022 and is out in Australia now. You can find out more at modernfilms.com/droverswife
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: Benjamin Cook. House band: MX Tyrants. Thanks to Shanaiya Pithiya.
This episode is in partnership with Modern Films.

May 2, 2022 • 31min
Ep 118: Activist special: Menopause revolution + middle aged women on screen
We need more middle-aged women on screen - and this episode’s guests are leading the revolution. First, Anna chats to menopause activist Kate Muir about her latest documentary: Davina McCall: Sex, Mind and The Menopause. Kate shares behind the scenes stories about her activism, about filming the show and what has helped her in her personal menopause experience. She also gives tips for documentary filmmakers who are just starting out (bring snacks!) and shares exciting plans for hitting Hollywood.
Our second guest is writer, performer and campaigner Nicky Clark, who founded the Acting Your Age Campaign and works tirelessly to pressure broadcasters and filmmakers to achieve parity when it comes to the ages of men and women on screen. She shares her choices for great depictions of women over 45 on screen, as well as a famous superhero movie that has a staggering imbalance. Finally, she shares her hopes for the future of the campaign and explains how you can get involved.
UK listeners can watch Davina McCall: Sex, Mind and The Menopause on Channel 4 at 9pm on Monday 2nd May 2022, and afterwards on All4.
Other films mentioned: The Lost Daughter; Nomadland; After Love.
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: Benjamin Cook. Assistant Producer: Shanaiya Pithiya. House band: MX Tyrants.

Apr 19, 2022 • 29min
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.

Apr 5, 2022 • 59min
Ep 116: Ruth Wilson & Harry Wootliff on True Things + Murina + Film criticism in the era of #MeToo
Actor-producer Ruth Wilson speaks out about sex scenes, complex female characters and working with women in an exclusive interview for her new film True Things. Writer-director Harry Wootliff joins her and Anna for a lively, in-depth chat about the sensual drama, co starring Tom Burke as an ex convict who has an ambiguous relationship with Wilson’s Kate. They talk about the source novel and building a character who felt fresh, new, contradictory and relatable - and about communicating the heart-stopping excitement and uncertainties of a new sexual connection. Ruth discusses the discomfort that can arise from intimate scenes, and praises working with Harry and an intimacy co-ordinator on True Things.
Next up, British critic Wendy Lloyd reveals the results of her extensive research into criticism in the age of #MeToo #BLM and #TimesUp. Having spoken to many critics in power, she discusses uncovering complex reactions to diversity in film reviewing - and how films such as Promising Young Woman and Red Sparrow presented a challenge to writers.
Finally, Antoneta Alamat Kusijanovic joins Anna to describe the gender dynamics in Croatian culture that inspired her coming of age film Murina. She also shares how Martin Scorsese worked with her as Executive Producer, and hints at details of her next film set in New York.
True Things is in UK cinemas now and Murina is in UK cinemas from April 8th 2022.
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
Girls On Film is an HLA production. Host: Anna Smith. Executive Producer: Hedda Archbold. Principal Partners: Vanessa Smith and Peter Brewer. Audio Producer: Emma Butt. Assistant Producer: Shanaiya Pithiya. House band: MX Tyrants.

Mar 7, 2022 • 35min
Ep 115: The Girls On Film Awards 2022
This International Women’s Day, you are cordially invited to attend the inaugural Girls On Film Awards! This episode was recorded at a glittering ceremony at the gorgeous The Garden Cinema in March 2022, with an audience of industry luminaries. Listen in to discover who won everything from Female Friendship on Screen to the Best Female Orgasm on film - and hear speeches from some of our favourite filmmakers, including Sarah Gavron (Rocks) and Philippa Lowthorpe (Misbehaviour).
The Girls On Film Awards reward excellence in the field of feminism, inclusion and diversity, female representation and the female gaze.
Because the awards are in part a celebration of Girls On Film’s third anniversary, films were eligible if they were released between the launch of Girls On Film on 2 October 2018, and 4 February 2022.
Thanks to The Garden Cinema, to principal partners Vanessa Smith and Peter Brewer and to Rémy Martin, Belle & Co and La Gioiosa Prosecco.
Here’s where to watch the nominated films:
FEMINIST FICTION FEATURE
Booksmart is on BBC Iplayer until Friday 11th March and on digital internationally. The Lost Daughter is on Netflix. Portrait of a Lady on Fire is available to rent on Amazon Video and other digital platforms.
Promising Young Woman is available to rent on Amazon Video.
Quo Vadis, Aida? is available on Netflix.
DOCUMENTARY FEATURE
Cow is on Mubi. Crip Camp is on Netflix. For Sama is on All 4 and on digital internationally. Rebel Dykes is on BFI Player. Writing with Fire is available to pre-order on AppleTV for March 29th 2022.
FEMALE FRIENDSHIP ON SCREEN
Booksmart is on BBC Iplayer til Friday 11th March. Herself is on BFI Player. Hustlers is on Netflix. Misbehaviour on BBC iPlayer. Rocks is on Netflix and will be on wider digital platforms in the coming months.
Ensemble Acting Babyteeth, The Farewell, Little Women and Rocks are on Netflix. Zola is available to rent on Amazon Prime Video.
GIRLS ON FILM ALLY
Pedro Almodovar for Parallel Mothers, in UK cinemas and will be on Premium Video on Demand from 14th March. J Blakeson for I Care A Lot, on Amazon Prime Video. Bo Burnham for Eighth Grade, to rent on Apple TV. John Krasinski for A Quiet Place Part II is on Now TV. Jordan Peele for Us, to rent on Amazon Prime Video.
COMPOSER
Nainita Desai. For Sama is available on All 4. The Wall: Climb for Gold is on Apple TV, Google Play and Amazon Prime Video.
Anne Dudley. The Hustle is on Netflix.
Hildur Guðnadóttir. Joker is available to stream on Amazon Prime Video.
Morgan Kibby. Mothering Sunday is available to rent on Amazon Prime Video.
Mica Levi. Zola is available to rent on Amazon Prime Video.
FEMINIST PUBLICITY CAMPAIGN
Misbehaviour is on BBC iPlayer. Mothers of the Revolution is available to rent on Apple TV. Rare Beasts is on Now TV. Rocks is on Netflix. Saint Maud is on Amazon Prime Video.
DIVERSITY BADGE OF HONOUR
Michaela Coel’s I May Destroy You is on BBC iPlayer and on digital internationally.
Sarah Gavron’s Rocks is on Netflix.
Ruth Madeley’s new film When Barbara Met Alan will be on BBC iPlayer soon. Years and Years is available on BBC iPlayer and on digital internationally.
Ashanti Omkar.
BEST FEMALE ORGASM
I'm Your Man is available to rent on Amazon Prime Video.
If Beale Street Could Talk and The Miseducation of Cameron Post are available to rent on Apple TV. Portrait of a Lady on Fire is available to rent on Amazon Prime Video. Queen & Slim is on Netflix.
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
Girls On Film is an HLA production. Hosts: Anna Smith and Hedda Archbold. Executive Producer: Hedda Archbold. Audio Producer: Michelle Tofi. Assistant Producer: Shanaiya Pithiya. House band: MX Tyrants. Interns: Jamie Wills and Greta Gard.

Mar 4, 2022 • 34min
Ep 114: The Power of the Dog Special with cinematographer Ari Wegner
The Power of the Dog cinematographer Ari Wegner joins Anna for a special episode exploring her work on Jane Campion’s riveting western. The first woman to be nominated for the cinematography BAFTA, Ari is also only the second ever nominated for the Oscar. The Australian filmmaker - who also worked on Girls On Film favourite Zola - gives her reaction to her historic nomination, explains how she got into the business and says exactly how she felt when she got the call from Campion. Anna then delves into detail about her work on The Power of the Dog, asking Ari to explain how the photography helps to establish the key characters of Phil (Benedict Cumberbatch) and Rose (Kirsten Dunst). Ari gives a fascinating, detailed insight into individual scenes, making this a must-listen for fans of the film, as well as anyone who’s ever wondered what being a cinematographer actually involves.
The Power of the Dog is available on Netflix now.
This episode is in partnership with The Power of the Dog.
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.

Feb 21, 2022 • 34min
Ep 113: Ann Dowd opens up about her role in the poignant drama Mass + review with Rhianna Dhillon
BAFTA-nominated actor Ann Dowd bares her soul in an in-depth interview about the film Mass, an involving drama about two couples meeting after a tragedy.
First, host Anna Smith speaks to film critic Rhianna Dhillon to review the film, which co stars Martha Plimpton, Reed Birney and Jason Isaacs. The two discuss their emotional reactions to the story, the power of the script and performances and consider the gender dynamic in the room onscreen.
Next, Ann Dowd joins Anna from Toronto, to discuss the role that is winning her rave reviews and awards buzz. The actress speaks with great candour and sensitivity about her process, giving an insight into the preparation behind Mass, and the real survivors she spent time with.
Finally, she gives Girls On Film listeners an exclusive hint about season five of The Handmaid’s Tale, in which she reprises her role as Aunt Lydia.
Mass is available on Sky Cinema now.
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: Benjamin Cook. Assistant Producer: Shanaiya Pithiya. House band: MX Tyrants.
This episode was produced in partnership with Sky Cinema.