“A complex, exquisitely composed work on the elusive natures of identity and happiness.” - Michael Koresky, Film Comment
“Akerman's use of long takes and open spaces delineates the gulf that separates her characters from their environment and from each other. While the atmosphere of anomie may be familiar from countless European art films, it is Akerman's intense emotionality, held desperately in check by her precise camera style, that makes this effort something special.” - Dave Kehr, Chicago Reader
In one of Akerman’s most penetrating character studies, Anna, an accomplished filmmaker (played by Aurore Clément), makes her way through a series of European cities to promote her latest movie. Via a succession of eerie, exquisitely shot, brief encounters—with men and women, family and strangers—we come to see her emotional and physical detachment from the world.
Awards & Nominations
1978 Chicago International Film Festival - Winner Bronze Hugo for Best Film
1979 International Film Festival Rotterdam - Official Selection
20th Century Queers | July 4–30, 2026
Contemporary queer cinema enjoys more visibility and mainstream success than ever before, but many of its roots lie in avant-garde and underground filmmaking. The films in this series trace that history, showcasing queer artists, in front of and behind the camera, who disrupted traditional cinematic form to suit their purposes, whether creating coded stories, exploring stylistic pleasures, or grossing out the normies.
The Film Center is ADA accessible. This presentation will be projected without open captions. The theater is hearing-loop equipped. For accessibility requests, please email filmcenter@saic.edu