‘The power of representations’ is a cinema programme on sexual violence that includes the projection of a carefully curated selection of films, conversations with directors, and a roundtable discussion that delves into the multifaceted aspects of this pressing issue and its representation in contemporary cinema. Drawing from a set of films selected from the different sections of 2023's Caminhos do Cinema Português Festival, this collection offers a platform to foster meaningful conversations and thoughtful reflection on the topic. The cycle transcends mere cinematic entertainment and intends to become a vehicle for education, dialogue, and advocacy.

Each film approaches sexual violence from unique angles. By weaving together narratives around the imaginaries of sexual violence, the narration of lived experience, negotiation of strategies to cope with trauma, and debates about agency vs. force and coercion, these films invite viewers to address different realities of sexual violence, explore nuances and complexities, power dynamics, and outcomes of trauma, and ultimately, to make contributions to the ethics of representing rape.

This film cycle about sexual violence takes place within the scope of a partnership between the Caminhos do Cinema Português Festival and the Dis/entangling Rape: Sexual Violence in Portuguese literature and cinema in the 21^st century (2022.05885.CEECIND), UnCoveR – Sexual violence in Portuguese media landscapes (2022.03964.PTDC) and ENGAGE – Promoting gender equality and social justice through social science communication and transmedia storytelling projects of the Center for Social Studies.

Free entrance on Monday, 13 November

Tickets (Tuesday-Friday): Full price 6€ / Discount 4,5€

Warning: These films contain sensitive content (visual and verbal) that might be considered triggering and emotionally challenging to some individuals. This includes physical, sexual, emotional, and verbal violence and abuse, as well as rape. One of the films - No es tan fácil - also contains lights with a strobing, pulsing, or flashing effect that might cause harm to those with neurological disorders or greater sensitivity to overstimulation.

Curatorship: João R. Pais (CCP), Rita Alcaire (CES), Júlia Garraio (CES) and Sofia José Santos (CES/FEUC)