Julia Roberts Defends Controversial Film Amid Press Firestorm

At the Venice Film Festival, Julia Roberts stood her ground while promoting her new thriller, "After the Hunt." Faced with tough questions about the film’s engagement with the #MeToo movement and cancel culture, Roberts passionately defended the film's intentions.

A Story of Turmoil and Truth

In "After the Hunt," Roberts plays a revered college professor caught in a maelstrom when her mentee (played by Ayo Edebiri) accuses a colleague (Andrew Garfield) of serious misconduct. The film explores complex interpersonal dynamics within the academic world, igniting heated discussions on feminism and accountability.

Roberts Responds to Accusations

When questioned if the film undermines the feminist movement, Roberts dismissed the idea, calling out the tendency of the story to evoke "old arguments." She emphasized that the film's purpose is to spark conversations rather than fuel controversy. "You’re welcome for stirring it up," she quipped, urging audience engagement.

The Need for Conversation

Roberts lamented that society is "losing the art of conversation," emphasizing that the film doesn’t dictate viewpoints but reflects the complexity of human truths. "If the movie ignites discussions, that’s the most exciting thing we could achieve," she stated emphatically.

Guadagnino’s Artistic Vision

Director Luca Guadagnino clarified that the film is about exploring diverse truths rather than promoting any particular agenda. "It’s not about one truth being more important; it’s about the clash of different truths," he articulated.

Highlighting Venice's Artistic Importance

"After the Hunt" premieres out of competition at Venice, a festival renowned for its artistic contributions. The film joins a lineup featuring intriguing titles like Emma Stone's "Bugonia" and Dwayne Johnson's "The Smashing Machine." This marks the first Venice debut for Roberts, Garfield, and Edebiri, adding an element of excitement to their careers.

A Light Moment Amidst Tension

In a brief humorous interlude, Roberts playfully directed her co-stars to simultaneously pop open cans of water, ensuring nothing distracted from their discussion. Garfield chimed in, remarking that it was a daily routine on set, exemplifying the cohesive synergy shared among the cast.

A Festival of Dialogue and Reflection

As the Venice Film Festival rolls on, "After the Hunt" not only promises thrilling entertainment but also pushes the boundaries of essential dialogues surrounding gender, truth, and accountability. With Roberts at the helm, the film encourages viewers to engage critically and openly in today’s charged cultural landscape.