Women Talking – movie review
Even though this is a work of fiction (termed “an act of female imagination”), the starting point for Women Talking was a recent real-life event in Bolivia. Between 2005 and 2009, more than 100 girls and women in a remote Mennonite colony discovered they had been raped in their sleep. A group of men from the colony was spraying an animal anesthetic into their victims’ houses to render them unconscious.
Women Talking is based on the novel by Canadian writer Miriam Toews, published in 2018. It centres around a secret meeting in a hayloft of eight women from the colony. They must decide, on behalf of the other women, how to react to similar traumatic events – either to stay and fight; or to leave. Importantly, time is of the essence. They have only 48 hours to reach a decision before the colony’s men, who are away to post bail for the rapists, return.
Sarah Polley (Take This Waltz) directs. She also co-wrote the screenplay with Toews.
Women Talking is a searing indictment of violent, controlling and manipulative men. It’s a film that drip-feeds information to form the full picture of why these women have been pushed to breaking point. They fear the consequences of leaving – of never again being able to see the children left behind and of turning their backs on God. But they also fear the consequences of staying – more violence, control and manipulation.
A small-audience film, Women Talking is slow moving, but powerful. The well-considered and developed script is backed up with strong performances, fine cinematography, evocative lighting and a memorable soundtrack. I was so impressed by the ensemble of actors who filled the primary roles – not a misstep among them. They are fiery, strong, vulnerable and unapologetic. Clashes are vitriolic.
Claire Foy as Salome is forceful and has every reason to be. Her character’s past and present are horrific. In fact, that’s the truth for all these women and their offspring. Rooney Mara is among the most accommodating as Ona. She is not out to push buttons, but still manages to do so. Ben Whishaw mesmerises as schoolteacher August, brought in to take minutes of the clandestine meeting, as these women can’t read or write. He’s only recently returned to the fold. We find out why as the film develops. August has always had a soft spot for Ona and is deeply sympathetic to the women’s plight. Frances McDormand plays only a small role as Scarface Janz, but – as always – is enormously impactful. She need not say a thing. Her ashen face speaks volumes as her presence looms large.
Women Talking is a heart-wrenching, insightful piece of filmmaking set to leave a lasting impression on those who see it.
Alex First
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Alex First is a Melbourne based journalist and communications specialist. He contributes to The Blurb on film and theatre.
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