Mind games on the big screen

ANYONE interested in learning about mind games and their effects may want to get themselves along to the Bendigo Library for a screening of the 1944 film Gaslight on Friday 29 November.

The screening will be part of the library’s contribution to the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, which runs from 25 November (International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women) to 10 December (Human Rights Day).

Gaslight is regarded as a classic psychological thriller and is about a newlywed who suspects her husband of trying to drive her insane, prompting the term gaslighting.

It is said to be chilling at times, with abuse of an insidious kind, and stars Ingrid Bergman. It was nominated for seven Oscars in 1945.

Directed by George Cukor and also starring Charles Boyer and Angela Lansbury in her film debut, it was adapted by John Van Druten, Walter Reisch, and John L. Balderston from Patrick Hamilton’s play Gas Light (1938).

It follows a young woman whose husband slowly manipulates her into believing that she is descending into insanity.

A remake of the 1940 British film of the same name directed by Thorold Dickinson, Cukor’s version had a larger scale and budget than the earlier film, and lends a different feel to the material.

To avoid confusion with the first film, Cukor’s version was originally titled The Murder in Thornton Square in the UK.

The film features numerous deviations from the original stage play, though the central drama remains that of a husband trying to drive his wife insane in order to distract her from his criminal activities.

The screening will run from 5.30pm to 7.30pm and will be free to attend, but bookings must be made at eventbrite.com.au/e/film-gaslight-pg-1944-tickets-977083391727.

The library is at 251 Hargreaves Street.