Jessica Chastain has consistently used her platform to address Hollywood’s lack of inclusivity. Even while onstage accepting awards, the two-time Oscar nominee has spoken out about “the need to build the strength of diversity in our industry and to stand together against homophobic, sexist, misogynistic, anti-Semitic, and racist agendas.” We love the fact that Chastain is so vocal about these issues, but unsurprisingly, not everyone is. “I had one male director say to me that I talk too much about all of this ‘women stuff,’” the “Miss Sloane” star revealed in an interview with American Way.
Unfortunately, we’re betting that many others have given her similar advice — basically, stop being a feminist killjoy — and we’re so glad she hasn’t relented under pressure.
“This is a person I love, and maybe he was concerned I would hurt my career,” she said of the director, before adding, “I’m not attacking anyone. I’m trying to create more inclusiveness, compassion, and empathy — which in turn makes better movies, better art.” Chastain seems to be suggesting that this particular director’s feelings are part of a wider-ranging problem, and we agree.
Do we hate that he said something so patronizing and offensive? Yep. But we also recognize that being so wonderfully candid about Hollywood’s preferential treatment for white males, both onscreen and behind the scenes, is risky for Chastain. Not everyone takes kindly to those who challenge the status quo. But here’s the thing: We’re sure Chastain didn’t need this fact mansplained to her. She’s well aware that advocating for a more inclusive industry may rub certain people the wrong way, but clearly she is passionate enough about the cause that ruffling some feathers is worth it. And have you taken a look at her resume?
The director may have truly been “concerned” for the future of Chastain’s career, but following her gut and speaking loudly and proudly in favor of equality seems to be working out for her, with roles in critically acclaimed films such as “Zero Dark Thirty” and “A Most Violent Year” and blockbusters like “The Martian” and “Interstellar.” She was recently named the Female Star of the Year by CinemaCon. Chastain doesn’t need any advice. She’s doing more than fine.
The actress recently launched her own company, Freckle Films, to develop female-driven material, and has set a goal to work with a female filmmaker every year. “They’re not given the same opportunities, so if I have any influence in choosing a film or a script or finding a director, I’m absolutely going to make a difference,” she said. Chastain also serves on the advisory committee of We Do It Together, a nonprofit production company dedicated to financing and producing media content that empowers women.
Chastain told American Way, “I’m doing my part to make the change, so why isn’t everyone else?” Cheers to Chastain for furthering the dialogue — yet again — and encouraging her peers to do the same.
You can next catch Chastain in Niki Caro’s “The Zookeeper’s Wife,” due March 31. The WWII-set drama is based on a true story and centers on Antonina (Chastain) and Jan Zabinski (Johan Heldenbergh, “The Tunnel”), keepers of the Warsaw Zoo. The couple helped saved hundreds of lives during the German invasion.
