’14th’ Director Ava DuVernay on Midterm Elections: ‘Either Way We’re in Trouble’
Oscar-nominated filmmaker Ava DuVernay is warning that the midterm elections aren’t looking great for the U.S. — no matter what the outcome. “I think either way we’re in trouble,” DuVernay told me at the Airbnb.org Gala last week. “If the Democrats pull it out, I think you’re goi
Ava DuVernay's comments on the midterm elections may seem out of place for a filmmaker, but they highlight the intersection of politics and art. As a prominent director, DuVernay has used her platform to address social justice issues in her work, from "Selma" to "13th." Her statement suggests that the current state of politics is concerning enough to warrant attention from creatives like herself.
DuVernay's film "13th," which explores the relationship between racism and mass incarceration, earned her an Oscar nomination and critical acclaim. Her willingness to speak out on contentious issues has made her a respected voice in the film industry. By weighing in on the midterm elections, DuVernay is demonstrating that artists can and should have a say in the conversations shaping the country.
As the film industry continues to grapple with its own issues of representation and social responsibility, DuVernay's comments serve as a reminder that artists are not isolated from the world around them. To watch next: DuVernay's upcoming projects, including a limited series for Apple TV+, and how other filmmakers and creatives respond to the current political climate in their work.
Originally reported by variety.com. FilmNews adds analysis for culture, style & media readers.