LEDA is a modern retelling of the ancient Greek Legend. In myth, Leda is a young queen who becomes the wife of Tyndareus, king of Lacedaemon. On their wedding night, Zeus is overcome with lust for the beautiful woman and assaults her in the form of a swan. She goes on to birth quadruplets who play major roles in Greek mythology. This telling follows a similar plot and begins with an already pregnant Leda (Adeline Thery) dealing with the severe morning sickness that accompanies the late months of pregnancy. Through her discomfort, she relives the memories of her life. We see visions of her father, friends, and suitors, reliving the trauma of loss with Leda as the child grows within her. As she draws closer to the birth, she begins having startling dreams and visions: Is the thing growing in her womb even human?
LEDA is a highly experimental film. There is a bizarre timelessness to the setting that makes one feel simultaneously uneasy and at ease: Things are familiar, but they shouldn’t be. The early 19th-century dress and lack of dialogue make the film feel like a modern silent movie. Despite the lack of speech, the plot is easy to follow. Leda’s emotions and vivid memories guide the viewer through a tense and thrilling tale.
While we aren’t shown any explicit sexual assault, some of the thematics and imagery may be triggering to survivors; something to consider when screening or making suggestions to patrons. An interesting draw for some, LEDA has both a 2D theatrical release and a 3D VR-enabled experience. If you’re looking for titles to use with VR headsets, this film would be an intriguing choice. Those looking for a unique art film will be thrilled to see this title. LEDA is visceral, cerebral, and—perhaps most importantly—beautiful. Every shot is memorable, and there is a lot of experimentation with camera movement portraying emotion. Highly Recommended.
Where does this title belong on public library shelves?
LEDA belongs in art film, thriller, or folk horror collections.
What kind of college instructors could use this title?
LEDA will see use in high-level theater, classics, and cinematography courses.