Los Angeles, California – Over 150 Jewish creatives, including actors Joaquin Phoenix and Elliott Gould, have signed an open letter in support of director Jonathan Glazer’s controversial Oscars speech on Gaza. The speech, delivered as Glazer accepted the Academy Award for Best International Film for “The Zone of Interest,” condemned military action against Palestinians in the strip. This speech has sparked both praise and criticism within the industry.
In his speech, Glazer highlighted the consequences of dehumanization and called for resistance against the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The letter, signed by various prominent figures in the entertainment industry, aims to defend Glazer’s stance and address the divisive reactions it has elicited.
Among the signees are Phoenix’s sister Rain, actor Debra Winger, director Boots Riley, filmmaker Joel Coen, and actors like Tavi Gevinson and Wallace Shawn. The letter emphasizes the need to counter the atmosphere of silence surrounding Israel’s actions in Gaza, expressing solidarity with Glazer and reiterating the importance of free speech and dissent in the arts.
The industry’s response to Glazer’s speech has been mixed, with supporters like Kirsten Dunst, Zoe Kazan, and Ken Loach expressing solidarity, while others, including Debra Messing and Eli Roth, have denounced it. The letter aims to redirect the focus to the humanitarian concerns raised by Glazer’s speech and away from the controversy surrounding it.
Glazer’s film, “The Zone of Interest,” explores the life of an Auschwitz officer and has garnered critical acclaim. In a show of solidarity, various actors and filmmakers have come together to support initiatives like Cinema for Gaza, which raises funds for Medical Aid for Palestinians. The letter signed by Jewish creatives underscores the need to amplify voices speaking out against violence and promote a culture of empathy and compassion within the industry.