Antonia's Line

Marlene Gorris, Netherlands 1996, 103 minutes

Antonia's Line is the story of Antonia who, on her deathbed, recalls the past 50 years of her life; returning to her home village with her daughter after the war on hearing of her own mother's impending death.

The film goes on to show events in Antonia's life and those of the women and friends around her. These include her daughter, grand-daughter (conceived Garp style; without necessarily wanting the added complication of a man around), great grand-daughter, long term lover and hermit friend. All are shown with affection and generous helpings of humour and compassion.

The film is essentially a feminist one (Gorris' previous films dealing with issues including misogyny in A Question of Silence). Although it raises issues of rape and misogyny, it also provides a role model of matriarchy where women have their own ideas and opinions and are fully independent. This is a step forward in the sense that instead of merely saying past models were bad, Gorris sets out how she feels societies and communities should function.

Although some critics have said she does not compare favourably to other directors who have carried out such family line epics (such as Fellini), the film is indeed a strong one with great depth. It is shot in meticulous period detail and with a love that comes over within the film giving it a fluid resonance. This was perhaps acknowledged by the fact it won Best Foreign Film Oscar in 1996.

Although it seems to focus too much on the eccentricities of the villagers (particularly the protestant and catholic neighbours who are destined neither to see eye to eye, nor find happiness), it does so with a light hand and never comes across as hackneyed.

The one fault with the film is perhaps in the ending which, along with Underground (see February), seems a little too sentimental and somehow doesn't fully fit with the rest of film.

Still, what the film does have (like Underground) is a warmth, vitality and deep humanity which means you can almost imagine being at these enormous country meals, sitting outside at the table with one's friends, basking in the sunshine and sense of family.

The film like a good meal or red wine, leaves you full up but also fully satisfied.

Review by Stephen J Brennan
Taken from EUFS Programme 1997-98