Pedro Almodóvar Critiques Trump and Canal+ at Cannes, Urges Artists to Speak Out
Pedro Almodóvar Speaks Out Against Donald Trump, Canal+ Talent Boycott At Cannes: “Worst Thing To Happen To Us Is To Stay Silent”
Image: Deadline
At the Cannes press conference for his film 'Bitter Christmas,' Pedro Almodóvar criticized the growing influence of media tycoon Vincent Bolloré and urged artists to voice their concerns about political issues, including Donald Trump and the situation in Gaza. He emphasized the moral obligation of creators to speak out against injustices.
- 01Almodóvar highlighted the importance of artists speaking out against political and social injustices, labeling silence as a symptom of fear.
- 02He specifically condemned the influence of Vincent Bolloré on the French media landscape, referencing the 'Time To Switch-Off Bolloré' petition signed by notable figures.
- 03Wearing a 'Free Palestine' pin, Almodóvar expressed solidarity with Palestinian rights and criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
- 04His film 'Bitter Christmas' features parallel narratives about creative struggles, receiving a seven-minute standing ovation at its premiere.
- 05Almodóvar expressed interest in exploring different genres, including thrillers, as a way to reflect on the current political climate.
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Pedro Almodóvar, during a press conference at the Cannes Film Festival for his film 'Bitter Christmas,' addressed the crisis in Hollywood and the threat posed by media tycoon Vincent Bolloré, who has been accused of stifling creative voices through Canal+. Almodóvar, wearing a 'Free Palestine' pin, emphasized the moral duty of artists to speak out against injustices, stating, 'The worst thing to happen to us is to stay silent.' He denounced the growing influence of right-wing politics, particularly in the context of Donald Trump, asserting that silence reflects fear and is indicative of a crumbling democracy. His film, which received a seven-minute standing ovation, features intertwined stories of filmmakers grappling with creative blocks. Almodóvar expressed a desire to explore new narrative directions, hinting at a potential shift in his filmmaking style. The press conference concluded with enthusiastic applause from attendees, underscoring the resonance of his message.
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