Actor and advocate Shayla Brown will participate in a live Q&A at the Sarnia Library Theatre on Wednesday to discuss Women Talking, a moving story inspired by the real-life events of an isolated Mennonite community in Bolivia.
The 2018 novel, written by Canadian Author Miriam Toews, was chosen for this year's One Book Lambton program. The literary initiative promotes Canadian authors and encourages residents to read the same book.
Women Talking was later adapted into a film and won a 2023 Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay.
Lambton County Library Public Services Coordinator for Youth Programs & Outreach Vanitia Campbell said they're excited to host a screening of the film on April 3, beginning at 6:30 p.m., followed by a discussion with Brown.
"It'll be a chance to view her work and then hear about her experience working in the film with Sarah Polley as a director," said Campbell.
The film is rated PG-13 as it covers mature and sensitive themes. Women Talking focuses on a group of isolated women who grapple with what to do after learning about who has been drugging and attacking them at night. The film has a runtime of one hour and 44 minutes.
Campbell said a facilitator will lead the discussion with Brown and there will be an opportunity for attendees to ask their own questions.
While the event will focus on the film, Campbell said another topic will likely be the representation of visually impaired people in the entertainment industry. As someone who has been blind since birth, Brown has been an active advocate on the matter.
"It's definitely something that will come up in the conversation," Campbell said. "The event itself does a lot to promote the concept of inclusion because we are taking a moment to celebrate this young actor who has done absolutely amazing things."
The event is expected to run until 9 p.m.
Admission is free but spots are limited. Attendees are asked to pre-register through the library's website.