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The Lost Honour of Katharina Blum (15*) + introduction

,Barbican Cinema 2
The Lost Honour of Katharina Blum

Margarethe von Trotta's profoundly political story of media manipulation and personal freedom.

Young housekeeper Katharina (Angela Winkler) falls for a handsome man at a party – who unbeknownst to her, is a criminal on the run from the police. The night she spends with this alleged terrorist is enough to bring her quiet life into ruins and subject her to police surveillance.

Exploited by cheap newspaper sensationalism, Katharina gradually becomes a wider target. Anonymous phone calls and letters, sexual advances and threats all test the limits of her dignity and sanity.

Directed with Margarethe von Trotta's then-husband Volker Schlöndorff  (The Tin Drum), The Lost Honor of Katharina Blum is a powerful yet sensitive adaptation of Heinrich Böll’s controversial novel.

A stinging commentary on state power, individual freedom and media manipulation, the film feels as relevant today as on the day it was released in 1975.

Tagged with: Cinema F-rated Margarethe von Trotta Revisited More...

Germany 1975 Dirs Margarethe von Trotta, Volker Schlöndorff 106 min

* = Locally classified by The City of London Corporation

Please note that Margarethe von Trotta will no longer be able to attend the Barbican to take part in the post-show discussion.

In association with the ICO, courtesy of Studiocanal and screening under the Vintage World Cinema banner. With thanks to the Goethe-Institute London.

‘The Personal is Political – Films by Margarethe von Trotta’ is a touring programme delivered by the ICO with the support of the BFI, awarding funds from The National Lottery. Find out more here. 

This film will be introduced by a Barbican cinema curator.

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Barbican Cinema 2

Location
Barbican Cinema 2 & 3 are located on Beech Street, a short walk from the Barbican’s Silk Street entrance. From Silk Street, you’ll see a zebra crossing that will take you across the road to the venue. 

Address
Beech Street
London
EC2Y 8DS

Public transport
The Barbican is widely accessible by bus, tube, train and by foot or bicycle. Plan your journey and find more route information in ‘Your Visit’ or book your car parking space in advance.