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.

Go to www.happeningfilm.com for more information.

This episode is in partnership with Picturehouse Entertainment, supported by the BFI Audience Award.