Chantal Akerman’s Jeanne Dielman returns to UK cinemas for its 50th anniversary

BFI Distribution has announced the UK rerelease of Chantal Akerman’s seminal film Jeanne Dielman, 23 quai du Commerce, 1080 Bruxelles on 7^th February 2025. The rerelease coincides with the film’s 50^th anniversary and follows its recognition as the greatest film of all time in the 2022 Sight and Sound Critics’ Poll. The film will be shown in UK and Irish cinemas as part of the BFI Southbank’s retrospective season Chantal Akerman: Adventures in Perception, which runs from 3^rd February to 18^th March 2025.

Directed by Akerman when she was just 24, Jeanne Dielman is a profound exploration of the daily life of a single mother over three days. First presented at the Directors’ Fortnight at Cannes in 1975, the film is a cornerstone of feminist cinema and brought Akerman international acclaim. It is celebrated for its revolutionary treatment of time and space, focusing on the minutiae of the protagonist’s routine to convey themes of anxiety and repression.

The film has been described by Le Monde as “the first masterpiece of the feminine in the history of cinema”. Its impact is attributed to Akerman’s meticulous attention to detail and its challenge to traditional cinematic narratives. The film’s cast and crew were predominantly women, a rarity at the time, including cinematographer Babette Mangolte and editor Patricia Canino.

Jeanne Dielman‘s influence extends beyond its initial release, resonating with contemporary filmmakers. Directors such as Joanna Hogg, Céline Sciamma, and Greta Gerwig have cited Akerman’s work as a significant influence on their own. Gerwig, in particular, has acknowledged incorporating a homage to Akerman in her film Lady Bird.

In addition to the cinema screenings, Jeanne Dielman will also be available as part of the BFI Blu-ray release, Chantal Akerman Collection Volume 1: 1967-1978, from 24^th February 2025. This collection aims to provide new audiences with an opportunity to experience Akerman’s pioneering work.

The retrospective at BFI Southbank not only celebrates Akerman’s contribution to cinema but also offers a comprehensive exploration of her career, providing insight into her creative process and the themes that pervade her work.

The editorial unit

Jeanne Dielman, 23, quai du Commerce, 1080 Bruxelles is released in select cinemas on 7^th February 2025.

Watch the trailer for Jeanne Dielman, 23, quai du Commerce, 1080 Bruxelles here: