While the #MeToo movement undeniably shook Hollywood to its core in 2017, leading to significant progress toward gender equality, the journey is far from over. Actress Diane Kruger recently shone a light on the ongoing challenges women face in the industry during her appearance at the Transcending Borders gala in Cannes. This event was hosted by Breaking Through the Lens, an organization that supports female filmmakers.
Kruger shared her personal experiences, highlighting the persistent obstacles she’s faced as a woman in Hollywood. “I know first hand how incredibly difficult it is as a woman in this industry,” she told Deadline. “Even though we’ve made strides, obviously, in the industry. But [this organization] really just resonated to me and I think more than ever, it’s a time to hear female voices. Even this year alone in Cannes, we’ve heard the uprising of the #MeToo movement, but it’s not just that. It’s also just telling our stories, and so I think that’s incredibly important.”
Her comments emphasize a key point: while conversations and awareness have grown, systemic barriers, like the gender pay gap, still exist. Kruger’s participation in the gala wasn’t just about raising awareness but also about offering real support for female voices in film.
During a panel discussion, Kruger joined other influential women in the industry, including producer Tiffany Boyle, CEO and founder of Pinky Promise Films Jessamine Burgam, executive director of SAGIndie Darrien Michele Gipson, and director Nadia Fall. The discussion highlighted the transformative power of storytelling.
During the panel, Fall remarked that “cinema is the empathy machine” and emphasized that storytelling is a powerful tool for creating change and raising awareness. This sentiment was echoed by Kruger, who shared a personal anecdote illustrating the transformative power of film.
“I’m a young mother and I really noticed that my daughter, when she watches a movie, her perception of things change,” Kruger said. “And that’s why something like this is so important, because there are so many young girls around the world that are privileged or underprivileged, and they’re going to grow up seeing the possibility that their story can be heard and can be told. And that’s why this is important. We need to support women and young girls so that one day they’re going to be able to tell their story.”
Kruger’s impassioned plea underscores the necessity of continuing to push for greater representation and support for women in filmmaking. While progress has been made, including the increased visibility of female directors and stronger responses to sexual misconduct allegations, the journey towards true equality in Hollywood remains ongoing. The industry has seen notable wins, such as the establishment of intimacy coordinators on sets and more stringent policies against harassment. However, the importance of initiatives like Breaking Through the Lens cannot be overstated, as they continue to champion the voices of women and ensure that their stories are heard and celebrated.
Before you go, click here for more celebrities who’ve spoken out about being body-shamed.
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