Adoption is a Hungarian drama film directed by Márta Mészáros. It tells the story of Kata (portrayed by Kati Lázár), a middle-aged woman who desires to have a child of her own. She has been in a long-term but secret relationship with Joska (portrayed by Péter Fried), a married man who does not want to have a child with her.
One day, Kata visits an orphanage and becomes interested in Anna (portrayed by Gabriella Hámori), a troubled teenage girl who is involved in a controversial relationship with her boyfriend. Kata decides to take Anna under her wing and begins an unlikely friendship with her. She also starts to explore her own feelings and desires as a woman.
As Kata and Anna spend more time together, they develop a deep connection that helps each of them confront their personal demons. Kata confronts her fear of loneliness and inadequacy, while Anna learns how to love and trust people again.
The film deals with themes of motherhood, friendship, and sexuality in a complex and nuanced way. It portrays the struggles of women from different generations and backgrounds who face similar challenges in a society that places a high value on traditional gender roles.
Adoption was released in 1975, and it was praised for its honest portrayal of female desire and sexuality. The film won the Golden Bear at the 1975 Berlin International Film Festival, making Mészáros the first woman to win the award. It is considered a classic of Hungarian cinema and a landmark in feminist filmmaking.
