A reclusive and difficult character in later life, she has frequently been cast as “a mean, cruel, hard, unlovable, unloving human being”, a bitter eccentric who preferred the company of her pet snail.

Loving Highsmith offers a fascinating counterpoint to the established Highsmith legend. Using her diaries and notebooks and the intimate reflections of her lovers, friends and family, it offers a deep dive into an enigmatic character who was forced to lead a double life and hide her vibrant love affairs with women but who also partied with Bowie and indulged enthusiastically in the burgeoning queer scene in 1960s France. Excerpts from her diaries voiced by Gwendoline Christie (Game of Thrones, Top of the Lake), beautifully interwoven with archive material of her and her most famous novel adaptations, create a vivid portrait of one of the most fascinating writers of the 20th century.

 “As multi-layered as one of the author’s own plots” The Hollywood Reporter

“A compelling portrait of underground life in the mid 20th century” The Wrap

Outburst brings you the very best in new and classic queer cinema in partnership with QFT. Visit outburstarts.com for full details of the festival programme, taking place 11th-19th November.