For centuries, the arts, among many others, have been predominantly practiced by men. We know too few female painters, composers, or sculptors. Cinema, though a relatively recent form of artistic expression, is no exception. Female filmmakers were nearly absent in the first 50 years of cinema's first century. However, gradually, with awareness of this disparity, the presence of female filmmakers has started to increase. For a long time, the idea of having women filmmakers in theatres or festivals seemed satisfactory. It was evidence that they had access to expression through this art form.
Where are we in this process of balancing the scales? Have we reached its end, or do we still have a long way to go? Is this the correct path? Is there still gender discrimination in cinema? What form does it take? How do we act? In which cinematic professions does gender discrimination persist? Are there European policies and practices dedicated to this process? Are there national equivalents? To what extent does gender inequality in society influence practices in the artistic fields? Is gender discrimination the only discrimination in the artistic and cinematic world? Is positive discrimination a necessary remedy? How do we know when we have reached the end of this process?
The Gender Equality in Cinema Conference will take place on Saturday, October 21, starting at 4:00 PM at Cinema Victoria. It aims to facilitate a discussion on equal opportunities in cinema, from an international to a local context, as seen through the perspectives of directors, producers, actresses, casting directors, and film schools.
The conference in Timișoara will feature French film directors Delphine Gleize and Catherine Corsini, Chiara Malta from Italy, Anamaria Marinca, Catrinel Dănăiață, Laura Baron, Dana Rogoz, in a dual role as an actress and director, casting director Ulrike Müller from Germany, with an impressive career, Julia Patry, a representative of the casting platform filmmakers.eu, providing the perspective of a young, active mother in the casting world.
Admission is free, subject to seat availability. The conversation will be conducted in English.