Subscription

Márta Mészáros

We showcase the direct and observational voice of this important director, whose films celebrate the rich tapestry of Central and Eastern European life.

‘I try to portray interesting women – not geniuses, but interesting women’
Márta Mészáros

While resisting the ‘feminist filmmaker’ label, Mészáros undeniably makes her films from a female point of view. She looks long and deep. Drawing on personal experience, she considers difference, rebellion and intimacy and doesn’t judge. After studying at the Moscow Film School and making over 20 documentaries (significantly stories of under-represented women), Mészáros made her first feature in 1968. Since then she’s built a significant body of award-winning work where a look and a gesture can replace pages of exposition, and in which we can learn volumes about relationships between parents and children, state and individuals and the rich tapestry of Central and Eastern European life. With many films restored by National Film Institute Hungary – Film Archive, it’s the perfect opportunity to acknowledge Mészáros’ incisive vision, so relevant to our times.

Maggi Hurt, season curator

Adoption Adoption

Drama 1975 84 mins Director: Márta Mészáros

Celebrated as the first time a woman (or a Hungarian) director was awarded the Golden Bear at Berlin, Adoption is a powerful statement on female agency.