Camden Library Film Club to Feature Global Women Leaders

In honor of Women’s History Month, the Camden Public Library’s Friday Film Club is set to watch and discuss two films that document the world’s leading women who were the first women to occupy the highest political office in their country.

“Looking for Merkel” takes a look at Chancellor Angela Merkel, often described as the most powerful woman in the world during her 16 years at the helm of Germany. “Bhutto” tells the epic story of Benazir Bhutto, the first woman in history elected to lead a Muslim nation, according to a library press release.

There will be an online discussion on the films at 4 p.m. on Friday, March 18. To request information on how to stream the films and receive the Zoom link to attend the discussion, email [email protected]. The films must be viewed before the discussion.

Merkel is considered a global icon and an enigma. Her absolute professionalism, her determination to protect her privacy and her minimalist press releases have made her elusive. The director of “In Search of Merkel”, Marion Van Renterghem, has followed Merkel for a decade. His film strives to unveil the leader by only addressing people who know Merkel directly ⁠—including the last three French presidents.

“Bhutto” focuses on a family favorite girl often referred to as the “Kennedys of Pakistan”. Bhutto was elected prime minister after her father was overthrown and executed by his own army. Her time in power saw acts of courage and controversy as she shattered the Islamic glass ceiling, fought for women’s rights and tried to put out the fires of religious extremism, while battling accusations of corruption.

New members are welcome to join the Friday Film Club. Find more information about this program and other library events at librarycamden.org or call 207-236-3440.

Former Pakistani Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto. Photo submitted

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