May el-Toukhy Discusses WWII 'Horizontal Collaborators' and Venice Director Snub

Director May el-Toukhy's film "Woman Unknown" delves into the complex and often overlooked history of women accused of "horizontal collaboration" during World War II, referring to relationships with occupying German soldiers. El-Toukhy explained that the project began with an interest in this specific historical phenomenon, noting that "when we started to build a story about a ‘horizontal collaborator,’ we realized that, during and after the war, the female body became part of national identity." She elaborated that in Denmark, this aspect of national identity was not extensively explored in historical narratives. The film aims to bring these women's experiences to the forefront, challenging simplistic judgments and highlighting the societal pressures and circumstances they faced.

Beyond the subject matter of "Woman Unknown," el-Toukhy also addressed the persistent gender imbalance within the film industry, specifically referencing the Venice Film Festival. She characterized the underrepresentation of female directors at major festivals as a "structural problem." El-Toukhy pointed out that while individual festivals might make efforts, the issue is systemic and requires broader, more fundamental changes within the industry's established structures. She suggested that the lack of female directors in prestigious lineups is not an anomaly but a symptom of deeper, ingrained inequalities that need to be systematically dismantled. This critique underscores a broader conversation about gender parity in filmmaking and festival programming, highlighting the need for sustained action beyond symbolic gestures.

El-Toukhy's comments come at a time when discussions surrounding gender representation in film are increasingly prominent. The "horizontal collaborator" narrative in "Woman Unknown" offers a nuanced perspective on a period often defined by clear-cut moral binaries, suggesting that the reality for many women was far more complicated. By focusing on these women, the film seeks to foster empathy and understanding for individuals who were often ostracized and condemned in the post-war era. The director's willingness to engage with such sensitive historical topics, coupled with her outspokenness on industry-wide gender issues, positions her as a significant voice in contemporary cinema. Her insights provide valuable context for understanding both the historical forces that shaped women's lives and the ongoing challenges they face in achieving equitable recognition within the global film community.