‘All Films Are Political’: Todd Haynes, President of Berlinale Jury, Calls for Resistance
Renowned American filmmaker Todd Haynes, President of the Jury at the 75th Berlin International Film Festival, recently asserted in an interview with Agence France-Presse (AFP) that "all films are political." This bold statement encapsulates Haynes’ conviction that cinema, regardless of its genre or subject matter, has an inherent impact on society.
In his capacity as jury president, Haynes emphasized the importance of filmmakers and artists engaging with the political climate, particularly in light of the regressive policies implemented by the Trump administration. He urged them to "start fighting again" against what he termed a "reactionary environment."
As a director whose work often explores LGBTQ+ themes and social issues, Haynes is acutely aware of the potential power of cinema to provoke thought and inspire change. He expressed concern that the gains made by marginalized communities in recent years could be jeopardized by the current political climate.
No Room for Complacency in the Face of Political Turmoil
Haynes decried the "barbaric assault" on American democratic institutions and denounced the actions of President Trump, Elon Musk, and the Republican Party. He stressed that this moment demands vigilance and resistance, as the very foundations of society are under threat.
The Responsibility of Artists in a Time of Crisis
Haynes believes that everyone has a role to play in resisting the erosion of democratic values. He emphasized that while art may not always explicitly address political issues, it nevertheless reflects and shapes the culture in subtle and profound ways.
He expressed disappointment at the trend of media and entertainment companies aligning themselves with the current administration, emphasizing the need for caution. "We have to be aware of the danger," Haynes warned.
LGBTQ+ Cinema Under Threat
Haynes specifically expressed concern about the future of LGBTQ+ cinema, which has been celebrated at the Berlinale through the prestigious Queer Palm award. He pointed to the recent resurgence of anti-trans and anti-queer rhetoric as a disturbing sign of the times.
He urged filmmakers and artists to remain vigilant and to continue fighting for the rights of all marginalized communities.
The Political Nature of Film
Haynes argued that all films, regardless of their genre, are inherently political. He drew inspiration from the work of German filmmaker Rainer Werner Fassbinder, who recognized the political significance of domestic dramas.
According to Haynes, even films that do not explicitly address contentious issues can still be political by reflecting the values and concerns of the society in which they are made.
Women as Agents of Change
Haynes welcomed the growing trend of prominent actresses co-producing the films in which they star, suggesting that they could potentially play a significant role in shaping the future of the film industry.
He cited the influence of actresses in shaping Hollywood in the 1930s, noting their ability to advocate for complex and nuanced female characters.
Artificial Intelligence and Creativity
While acknowledging the potential benefits of artificial intelligence in fields such as medicine and scientific research, Haynes expressed skepticism about its role in creative endeavors. He believes that creativity is a uniquely human attribute that cannot be replicated by computers.
In conclusion, Todd Haynes’ call for resistance and his assertion of the political nature of all films serve as a timely reminder of the power of art to inspire change and challenge the status quo. As the world grapples with political upheaval and uncertainty, artists and filmmakers have a crucial role to play in shaping the future and protecting the values we hold dear.
