In Praise of Older Women (1978 film)


In Praise of Older Women is George Kaczender’s twelfth feature film. It was written by Stephen Vizinczey, Paul Gottlieb and Barrie Wexler. The story happens in Hungary during and after World War II but the movie was shot in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. The film was premiered at the Toronto Festival of Festivals on September 14, 1978.

Plot

Andras Vayda grows up in a turbulent, war-torn Hungary, where he procures local girls for the occupying G.I.s during World War II. Disappointed by the girls his age, he meets Maya, a married woman in her 30s, who tutors him in love and romance. Maya is only the first of many mature women whom Andras will meet through his teenage and young adult life.

Cast

Before its release, the Ontario Film Review Board demanded the removal of a 35 second sex scene from the film. However, the original cut of the film was shown during the Toronto International Film Festival, and despite a subway strike and a rainstorm, hundreds of people waited outside the Elgin Theatre to see the film. According to some sources, counterfeit tickets were distributed, and a riot almost formed as ticket holders were turned away.

Accolades

Certification

Australia: R / Canada: 18A / Finland: K-18 / Iceland: 16 / Netherlands: 16 / Sweden: 15 / UK: 18 / USA: R