Schnabel Defends His Cast Amid Gaza Activist Outcry

In a bold response to calls from Gaza activists, renowned director Julian Schnabel has declined to disinvite stars Gal Gadot and Gerard Butler from the Venice Film Festival, where his new film 'In the Hand of Dante' is premiering. The controversy arose as a letter signed by hundreds of filmmakers and artists urged festival organizers to take a definitive stance against the ongoing Gaza conflict, with some specifically targeting Gadot and Butler due to their public support for Israel.

Venice Organizers Stand by Their Stars

Despite the pressure, Venice Film Festival chief Alberto Barbera confirmed that both actors remain invited, though neither attended the event. Schnabel, addressing the situation during a press conference for his film, expressed his belief that artists should not be boycotted. "I selected those actors for their talents, and their performances in the film were remarkable. We should focus on the movie itself," he asserted.

A Film steeped in Literary Richness

'In the Hand of Dante' is an adaptation of Nick Tosches' novel, centering on a fateful encounter with a rare manuscript of Dante Alighieri's 'The Divine Comedy.' The story unfolds as the manuscript, discovered in the Vatican, travels through a colorful cast of characters, ultimately falling into the hands of Tosches himself. Oscar Isaac takes on the dual role of Tosches and Dante, a remarkable feat that drew him to the project.

Oscar Isaac Reflects on His Role

At the press conference, Isaac elaborated on the profound creative challenge he encountered working on the film. He described the project as 'the impossible dream,' driven by a desire to explore the mysterious aspects of storytelling. During filming in enchanting locations such as Sicily, Rome, and New York, he immersed himself in the texts, constantly seeking inspiration for his performances.

The Collaborative Spirit Behind the Film

Schnabel also shared the fascinating backstory of how the film came to be. His collaboration with Johnny Depp, who once gifted him several books, laid the groundwork for this ambitious adaptation. With Depp no longer involved, Isaac stepped up, stating, "If you’re going to do this, I’m your man." The film's impressive cast also features Jason Momoa, John Malkovich, and even Martin Scorsese, who plays a pivotal character that influences the narrative.

A Diverse Ensemble Cast

Joining the seasoned actors are a host of talented Italian performers including Claudio Santamaria, Guido Caprino, and Dora Romano, whose quirky portrayals enrich the film's dynamic storytelling. Schnabel's vision interweaves a rich tapestry of performances, all converging around the metaphor of Dante's epic journey.

A Premiere Unlike Any Other

As 'In the Hand of Dante' prepares to debut, it promises not only to captivate audiences with its intricate narrative but to provoke conversations about artistry, cultural debates, and the power of film. The Venice premiere is set to be a highlight of the festival, attracting attention from critics and cinephiles alike.