Breaking the Silence (1985)

Breaking the Silence (1985) poster

In a society, which labels lesbians as masculine, man-hating and less than female, how are lesbians who choose to have children treated? This excellent film gives a voice to a variety of women from varying ages, races and class backgrounds. Some of the women were lesbians when they decided to have children; others became lesbians after being involved in heterosexual relationships. As lesbian mothers they all have to learn to cope with living in a hostile society, with the ever-present possibility of losing their children - if they still have them - their lovers, or their work. Breaking the Silence offers an engaging and compelling picture of an area of female existence which, for many, has had to remain hidden for fear of losing their children. From those who have been brave enough to speak out in this film what emerges is a voice of strength and courage in the face of outrageous bigotry.

Director: Melanie Chait
Genre: Documentary
Runtime: 62 min
Release Date:
Editing: Ellin Hare
Production: Lusia Films, Channel 4 Television
Country: United Kingdom
Original Language: en
More Films by Director: Melanie Chait
More Films in Genre: Documentary

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Breaking the Silence about?
In a society, which labels lesbians as masculine, man-hating and less than female, how are lesbians who choose to have children treated? This excellent film gives a voice to a variety of women from varying ages, races and class backgrounds. Some of the women were lesbians when they decided to have children; others became lesbians after being involved in heterosexual relationships. As lesbian mothers they all have to learn to cope with living in a hostile society, with the ever-present possibility of losing their children - if they still have them - their lovers, or their work. Breaking the Silence offers an engaging and compelling picture of an area of female existence which, for many, has had to remain hidden for fear of losing their children. From those who have been brave enough to speak out in this film what emerges is a voice of strength and courage in the face of outrageous bigotry.
Who directed Breaking the Silence?
Breaking the Silence was directed by Melanie Chait.
How long is Breaking the Silence?
Breaking the Silence has a runtime of 1h 2m (62 minutes).
What genre is Breaking the Silence?
Breaking the Silence is a Documentary film.
Where was Breaking the Silence produced?
Breaking the Silence was produced in United Kingdom.