Voldtekt

Anja Breien's stripped down, almost documentarian style and nonlinear narrative structure make this dissection of rape - or rather the indictment and trial of a suspected rapist - a fascinating watch. Filmed in black and white utilizing lots of introspective close-ups, quick intercutting and almost no music, Voldtekt is semi-experimental both aesthetically and thematically, not least in its factual but reversed rendition of the trial itself. A clever choice was casting real-life lawyers, most notably renowned criminal defence counsel Olav Hestenes. This and Svein Sturla Hungnes' aptly understated performance give the film an authenticity which was rather unusual for Norsk Film's productions in this time period. The film effectively underscores the impossible situation an accused can find himself in, and its continued relevance is a testament to the timelessness in Breien's focal point.

Rape, or in Norwegian Voldtekt, is acclaimed Anja Breien's second feature film, and the film made before her critically acclaimed Wives(Hustruer), and really shows why she grew to be one of the most known female Norwegian film makers. Rape tells how 22 year old Anders Bakken, a youngster with an unstable backround, is suspected to be behind a rape, and another attempt, seemingly done by the same perpetrator. Anders finds himself in a process he can't get out of, claiming his innocense. The trail process is very real, using real and well known laywers as actors in court. The film is holding qualities which I find good, and you also feel the helplessness of the process. Acting is superb, and Svein Sturla Hugnes is very good in the main role. The lawyers impress as actors, as well.