"Jeanne Dielman, 23, quai du Commerce, 1080 Bruxelles (1975)" Chantal Akerman

“Jeanne Dielman, 23, quai du Commerce, 1080 Bruxelles” (1975) has been described as the best film of all time. More than three hours in length, this cult classic will be shown in the National Museum’s auditorium as part of the Motstrøms film programme.

About the film

“Jeanne Dielman, 23, quai du Commerce, 1080 Bruxelles” is a realistic portrayal of the life of a single mother and prostitute who lives in Brussels with her son. The film follows Jeanne over three days of her life, as she peels potatoes, scrubs the bath tub, brushes her hair, makes the bed, and receives visits from men. With its long takes and slow pace, the film challenges basic genre conventions.

About the filmmaker

Known for her experimental approach to the film medium and her powerful depictions of the lives and fates of women, Chantal Akerman (1950–2015) was one of Belgium’s foremost filmmakers. The author of numerous short films, she debuted her first feature film, “Je Tu Il Elle”, in 1974. Her last film was the documentary “No Home Movie” (2015).

Akerman’s “Jeanne Dielman” made her the first female filmmaker to top Sight & Sound’s list of the best films of all time.

Motstrøms

The screening is part of Motstrøms, a cinematic programme at the National Museum showcasing films that entertain, challenge and break boundaries. The programme includes both classics of queer filmmaking and new films that move between traditional cinema and art.