BFI Southbank retrospective explores Chantal Akerman's defiant cinema beyond Jeanne Dielman

The BFI Southbank in London is hosting a retrospective named 'Chantal Akerman: Adventures in Perception,' which will be available until 18 March 2025. This exhibition delves into Akerman's body of work, extending beyond her renowned 1975 film, Jeanne Dielman, 23 Quai du Commerce, 1080 Bruxelles. This 198-minute feature, which premiered at the 28th Cannes Film Festival, was recognized as Sight and Sound's 'Best Film of All Time' in 2022. Created by Akerman, who passed away in 2015, with a predominantly female crew at just twenty-five, the showcase features her early shorts, romantic comedies, literary adaptations, and documentaries. Scholar Marion Schmid notes the Holocaust's influence on Akerman's artistry, which was shaped by filmmakers such as Jonas Mekas. Additionally, a Blu-Ray boxset produced by BFI complements the exhibition.