On January 2, 2025, Ukraine will see the release of the film adaptation of Virginia Woolf's satirical modernist novel, considered one of the author’s most renowned works – "Orlando" directed by Sally Potter. This screening is part of the winter retrospective by the film company "Arthouse Traffic," which features three iconic films, each of which has become a significant event in global cinema.
The plot unfolds in 17th-century London. Orlando, a young and handsome aristocrat, catches the eye of Queen Elizabeth I. When Her Majesty commands the youth not to grow up or age, Orlando complies. Strangely, he manages to remain a youthful beauty for centuries, exploring the meanings of death, love, poetry, politics, and society. Then one day, Orlando suddenly wakes up as a woman.
This fantasy-historical drama from 1992, starring Tilda Swinton, was nominated for two Academy Awards: for Best Production Design and Best Costume Design. The film also received a BAFTA Award for Best Makeup and a European Film Academy Award for Best Film by a Young Director.
Tilda Swinton's co-star on set was Billy Zane, known for his role in "Titanic" and the series "Twin Peaks."
The world premiere of the film took place in 1992 at the Venice Film Festival. The costumes were designed by Sandy Powell, a three-time Oscar winner (nominated for "Orlando"), who is also known for her work on films like "The Favourite," "The Aviator," and "Gangs of New York."
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Sally Potter's film has maintained its cult status for three decades: shortly after its release, in 1993, The New York Times predicted that "Orlando" would become a classic and a model for independent directors; later, in 2007, the film made it onto The Guardian's list of the 1000 films to see before you die.