Chantal Akerman

Chantal Akerman

June 6, 1950 (74 years old) in Brussels, Belgium

Chantal Anne Akerman (June 6, 1950 – October 5, 2015) was a Belgian film director, artist and professor of film at the City College of New York. Her best-known film is Jeanne Dielman, 23 quai du Commerce, 1080 Bruxelles (1975). Despite being categorised as such by others, Akerman frequently distanced herself from the feminist label, explaining, "when people say there is a feminist film language, it is like saying there is only one way for women to express themselves". Instead, Akerman acknowledged that her cinematic approach took inspiration from the writings of Gilles Deleuze and Felix Guattari, as well as from filmmakers Michael Snow and Jean-Luc Godard. Many directors have cited Akerman's directorial style as an influence on their work. Kelly Reichardt, Gus Van Sant, and Sofia Coppola have noted their exploration of filming in real time as a tribute to Akerman.

Known For

Les Rendez-vous du dimanche Les Rendez-vous du dimanche
Jeanne Dielman, 23, quai du Commerce, 1080 Bruxelles Jeanne Dielman, 23, quai du Commerce, 1080 Bruxelles
Pictures of Europe Pictures of Europe
Je Tu Il Elle Je Tu Il Elle
News from Home News from Home

Credits