Movie on Irish convict woman in Australia causes uproar on sexism
“The Nightingale” – the only entry at the Venice Film Festival directed by a woman – is spearheaded by Australian native Jennifer Kent.At a press screening earlier this week, an Italian film blogger reportedly yelled out obscenities at the screen.
The Hollywood Reporter writes that the insults included, “Shame on you!” and a derogatory remark towards Kent with connotations similar to “prostitute”.Described as both traumatic and violent, “The Nightingale” tells the story of a young Irish girl (played by actress Aisling Franciosi) who chases a British officer through the Tasmanian wilderness in the year 1852.The movie was selected to win the Special Jury Prize.
Kent responded about concerns of the depiction of issues that are violent, racist, and sexist – and how the greater public will react to the controversial plot.
“I think it’s of absolute importance to react with compassion and love for ignorance,” she said. “There is no other option. I think the film speaks very clearly to that. We see other options played out, and they give no relief.”