Gossip Screening and Q&A with filmmaker Hannah Renton

Screening of Gossip introduced by filmmaker Hannah Renton, talk and Q&A to follow. Presented in partnership with Bell House and the Birth Rites Collection, curated by Dr Helen Knowles.

Gossip unearths the untold histories of women persecuted as witches in the 16th century. Shot along the Essex coast, the film revisits the region’s history of witch trials and the women who were condemned for their knowledge, care, and power.

Synopsis: East Anglia, 1584. When a young woman goes into labour a group of women, led by the local midwife, guide her through the trials of labour. But as they celebrate the safe arrival of new life, a greater danger arrives at the door. Gossip tells the untold story of witches as they really were - midwives, healers, women with knowledge and power.

“With Gossip, I wanted to tell a story of solidarity and draw a line between the witch trials and the ongoing struggle for reproductive justice and control over our bodies. Naming the film Gossip, a word that changed from meaning friendship to one of denigration and ridicule, highlights the psychological attack as well as the direct violence. The gossip we formed, of both professional actors and midwives, became not only the heart of the film you see but the entire filmmaking process”

— Hannah Renton, Director & Co-Writer

The film was made as a graduation film from the National Film and Television School and was shortlisted for a BAFTA Yugo Student Award for Best Live Action.

The film is a historical drama/live action and is 17 minutes long.

https://www.birthritescollection.org.uk/more-works/gossip-6ewnd

Refunds

Please note, we are unfortunately unable to offer refunds for this event.

Reduced ticket prices

We’d like as many people as possible to be able to access and enjoy Bell House. We offer a limited number of income-based bursary tickets at half price, which can be booked directly - if you would not be able to attend at the full price due to financial considerations, then this concession option is available.