The 2023 Oscars have been hit with controversy again due to the absence of female directors in the “Best Director” category. Patty Jenkins, known for directing Monster and Wonder Woman, spoke out against the lack of gender equality in an interview with Variety.
Patty Jenkins Slams Oscars Over Lack of Female Filmmakers
Jenkins expressed her frustration with the Oscars, saying, “I give up, I give up, I say that even with all of their push to have diversity. The numbers are just hugely imbalanced of who votes for these things. I sort of just stopped paying attention to it. It’s still going to take a long ways to go. It’s going to take a lot more to really see truly more diverse awards. I really appreciate the efforts that they’re making but we have a long way to go.”
This sentiment was repeated by Gina Prince-Bythewood, director of The Woman King, in an essay for the Hollywood Reporter. She discussed the “unbridgeable gulf” between black excellence and recognition and that some Academy members did not want to see her film.
Chloé Zhao, the director of “Nomadland” and recipient of the best director award, also urged the Academy and its voters to promote gender diversity among nominees. In an interview with Variety, Zhao acknowledged the significant gap for women filmmakers in the industry.
Zhao also highlighted the need for Hollywood to enhance women’s representation in nominations and invest more in women-led projects. Although not solely motivated by awards, she noted that recognition could contribute to sustained career growth. As the director of “Eternals,” Zhao emphasized the importance of this issue.
via – variety
