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Marianne & Leonard: Words of Love (12A)

Relaxed Screening

marianne and leonard walking together both wearing all white

A beautiful yet tragic love story between Leonard Cohen and his Norwegian muse Marianne Ihlen

Their love began on the idyllic Greek island of Hydra in 1960 as part of a bohemian community of foreign artists, writers and musicians. The film follows their relationship from the early days on Hydra, a humble time of ‘free love’ and open marriage, to how their love evolved when Leonard became a successful musician. It was on Hydra in 1968 that director Nick Broomfield, then aged 20, first met Marianne Ihlen.

Marianne introduced him to Leonard Cohen’s music and also encouraged Nick to make his first film and was an enormous influence on him. Marianne and Leonard's was a love story that would continue for the rest of their lives. Along the way we learn of the tragedy that befell those that could not survive the beauty of Hydra, the highs and lows of Leonard’s career, and the inspirational power that Marianne possessed.

US 2019 Dir Nick Broomfield 97 min

Relaxed screenings are specially tailored for film fans who may be on the autistic spectrum, have Tourette Syndrome, anxiety, sensory difficulties or other learning disabilities.

The cinema environment is tailored to the needs of the audience by having the lights dimmed, though not off, and the volume levels a little lower than usual. Attendees are free to sit in whichever seat they like and can enter and exit the room at any time, with easy access for any wheelchair users. Attendees are free to make noise in these screenings. Staff are trained and ready to assist with any help the audience may need during these trips to the cinema at Barbican.

A visual guide to our cinemas is available to download here.

Barbican Cinema 3