WGSS Spring Movie Screening and Discussion Night | The Accused
The Accused is a 1988 American legal drama film directed by Jonathan Kaplan and written by Tom Topor, loosely based on the 1983 gang rape of Cheryl Araujo in New Bedford, Massachusetts. Starring Jodie Foster, Kelly McGillis, Bernie Coulson, Leo Rossi, Ann Hearn, Carmen Argenziano, Steve Antin, and Tom O'Brien, the film follows Sarah Tobias (Foster), a young waitress who is gang raped by three men at a local bar. With the help of District Attorney Kathryn Murphy (McGillis), she sets out to prosecute the rapists as well as the men who helped induce the assault.
The Accused premiered at the 39th Berlin International Film Festival, where it competed for the Golden Bear, and was theatrically released in the United States on October 14, 1988. The film was credited for being one of the first mainstream films to deal with the horrors of rape and its aftermath on a victim's life. Foster's performance marked her breakthrough into adult roles, earning numerous accolades including the Academy Award for Best Actress at the 61st Academy Awards.
“This movie includes graphic representation of gang rape.”
Event Snapshot
When and Where
Who
Open to the Public
Interpreter Requested?
No