John Lennon and Yoko Ono travelled to Montreux, Switzerland, on 25 April 1969 to attend the ninth annual Festival Rose d’Or — an international gathering focused on television and entertainment broadcasting.

After flying into Geneva, the pair made their way to Montreux where they presented their experimental short film Rape outside of the main competition. The 77-minute piece followed a young Hungarian woman, Eva Majlath, as she was persistently filmed in public spaces around London, including Hyde Park.

Originally broadcast on Austrian television in March 1969, the film was intended as a provocative commentary on voyeurism and intrusion. However, its screening at the festival was met with a largely hostile response.

“The showing was greeted with icy silence, some derisive laughter, and only a thin ripple of applause… many people walked out.”
— L. Marsland Gander, The Daily Telegraph

Critics and television professionals reportedly dismissed the film outright, highlighting the gulf between Lennon and Ono’s avant-garde ambitions and mainstream broadcasting expectations at the time.

During their visit, Lennon and Ono also held a 35-minute press conference at the Fairmont Le Montreux Palace hotel. Journalists questioned the authenticity of the film, particularly whether Majlath had been aware of her role.

“Some arrangement has been made.”
— John Lennon, 1969

Lennon denied prior knowledge that Majlath was an actor, while confirming that she had received payment. The event underscored the controversial nature of the couple’s experimental film work during this period, as they continued to challenge artistic and social boundaries beyond traditional music formats.

FAQs

What is the Festival Rose d’Or?

An international festival celebrating television and entertainment broadcasting.

What film did Lennon and Ono present?

Their experimental 1969 film Rape.

How was the film received?

It was largely met with negative reactions, including walkouts and criticism.

Who was featured in the film?

A 21-year-old Hungarian woman, Eva Majlath.

Did Lennon and Ono speak to the press?

Yes — they held a 35-minute press conference during the festival.