Looking for Mr. Goodbar (18) + intro

Unavailable for many years, this gritty study of 1970s sexual liberation showcases a tour-de-force central performance from Diane Keaton.

Adapted from the 1975 novel of the same name by Judith Rossner, Looking for Mr. Goodbar follows Theresa Dunn, a schoolteacher of Deaf children by day and inner-city barfly by night, as she explores her newfound freedom away from her oppressive Catholic family. She navigates mounting drug and alcohol fuelled sexual encounters with the often-dangerous men she meets at bars and discos, pushing her sense of modern liberation to its limit.

Uniquely among its contemporaries, Looking for Mr. Goodbar depicts a complex female lead character who makes her own independent foray into late-night, male-dominated spaces in pursuit of an autonomous and thrilling erotic life. But as with other films of the Rogue Hollywood era, Dunn’s journey takes her further towards a violent and extreme darkness, culminating in a stark and unforgettable viewing experience.

This screening is presented from a vintage 35mm print.