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Swept Away (18) + introduction by Dr Silvia Angeli

Hidden Figures – Lina Wertmüller

Swept Away

Tables are turned when a rich woman and a working-class sailor are marooned on an island in one of Lina Wertmüller’s most famous and most controversial comedies.

Raffaella, a millionaire’s wife (Mariangela Melato), treats Gennarino (Giancarlo Giannini), a deckhand who works on her yacht, with utter contempt. However, there is a reversal of power when the two are washed up on an island, and Raffaella must rely on Gennarino to survive.

Swept Away is one of Wertmüller’s best known films, with a widely derided remake starring Madonna adding to its notoriety. While its scenes of violence towards Raffaella, including a sexual assault, and Raffaella’s submissive response, are disturbing to watch, particularly in the context of a comedy, it is an important feature in Wertmüller’s career.

The themes of gender and class warfare are as potent as ever, and Melato and Giannini are typically excellent.

This screening is introduced by Dr Silvia Angeli visiting lecturer at University of Westminster and Nottingham Trent University.

This film contains some scenes of violence, including sexual violence, that viewers may find disturbing.

Italy 1974 Dir Lina Wertmüller 114 min

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